Continuous versus Discontinuous

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In summary, the conversation discussed the relationship between Mathematics and Physics, the principle of excluded middle, the nature of ultimate physical reality, the concepts of Field and Wave, the Uncertainty Principle, randomness versus uncertainty, and Godel's Theorems. It also touched on the hypothesis of continuous versus discontinuous and the use of mathematical concepts such as integrals and derivatives to bridge the gap between the two. The conclusion drawn is that ultimate reality is likely continuous and multidimensional, but our limited perception can only interpret it as discontinuous. Therefore, our theories and equations may describe the behavior of seemingly discrete entities, but they do not invalidate the continuous nature of ultimate reality.
  • #1
afcsimoes
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Considering:
a) The logical foundation of Mathematics and Mathematics as the foundation of Physics.
b) The principle of excluded middle (nothing can be simultaneously something and its opposite).
c) The ultimate physical reality: It must be discontinuous or continuous; it can neither be simultaneously both nor one or the other in random mode.
d) The concepts of Field and Wave are in the domain of the continuous and the concept of Particle is in the domain of discontinuity.
e) The Uncertainty Principle (Heisenberg) as a barrier to our knowledge.
f) Randomness versus uncertainty.
g) Godel's Theorems: the discontinuous “kingdom” cannot demonstrate its own consistency.
h) The Hypothesis of the Continuous versus Discontinuous and the Zermelo–Fraenkel set theory with all the possible axiom schemata.
i) The Field Equations and Wave Equations (continuous) versus infinite series (discontinuous).
j) In essence, the mathematical "operation" of "passing to limit” is an amazing jump to the void, a thinking inference that builds a bridge between the discontinuous and the continuous (and that works fine…).
k) The mathematical concept of integral (continuous entity) as the boundary for a series of a succession of terms, or the series of “infinite” infinitely small parcels, i.e. as small as you wish.
l) The same for the mathematical concept of derivative or derived function, based on the concept of "infinitesimal" and in the limit resulting from a sequence of tangents.
m) The perimeter of the circle as the polygon limit.
n) And so on…
All this seems to me that points to the following conclusion(s):
ULTIMATE REALITY is of continuous nature and multidimensional, which does not exclude the existence of entities apparently in the domain of the discontinuous, or so we interpret them as.
We are discontinuous entities of 3 or 4 dimensions and cannot perceive, in their full “glory”, entities of more dimensions.
Those entities appear to us like discontinuous ones because their multiple dimensions are “winded within themselves”, thus creating a region in the continuous space so different from the remaining that we observe them as a separated one from all the background.
We can describe the behavior of these seemingly discrete and discontinuous entities with equations of the domain of discontinuity, but that does not invalidate the nature of ultimate REALITY as Continuous.
 
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PF rules do not allow for personal speculation or philosophical discussions. Thread locked.

Also, remember that math is a tool. Just because the math suggests something does not make it true. Ultimately, our theories have to match reality. That is the ultimate test of science. As such, it is impossible to find an "ultimate reality" since we can never know whether our theories are true or if they just appear to be true.
 

1. What is the difference between continuous and discontinuous data?

Continuous data is a type of data that can take on any value within a certain range, while discontinuous data is a type of data that can only take on specific values. For example, temperature is continuous data because it can take on any value within a certain range (e.g. 75.6 degrees), while the number of apples in a basket is discontinuous data because it can only take on whole number values (e.g. 5 apples).

2. How are continuous and discontinuous data used in scientific research?

Continuous and discontinuous data are both used in scientific research to make observations and draw conclusions. Continuous data is often used in experiments and studies where there is a need to measure precise values or changes over time. Discontinuous data is often used in studies where data is collected in categories or groups, such as demographic data or survey responses.

3. Can continuous data be converted to discontinuous data?

Yes, continuous data can be converted to discontinuous data by rounding the values to the nearest whole number or category. However, this conversion may result in a loss of precision and accuracy in the data.

4. How do continuous and discontinuous data affect statistical analysis?

The type of data (continuous or discontinuous) can affect the statistical analysis used in a study. Continuous data is typically analyzed using methods such as t-tests and ANOVA, while discontinuous data is often analyzed with non-parametric tests such as chi-square or Mann-Whitney U tests. It is important to choose the appropriate analysis method based on the type of data being used.

5. Which type of data is more common in scientific research?

The type of data used in scientific research can vary depending on the study and its objectives. However, continuous data is often more common in scientific research as it allows for more precise measurements and analysis. Discontinuous data is also commonly used in research, especially in studies that involve surveys, questionnaires, or categorical data.

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