Planck time/length infinite and defined?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of the shortest interval of time and the smallest object, and whether they are infinite. One person argues that spacetime is pixelated into small volumes, making it easier to understand, while the other notes that there is no evidence yet to prove either way. The connection between maths and reality in this case is still a matter of faith, not evidence.
  • #1
jarroe
40
0
Wouldn't the shortest interval of time and the smallest object always be an infinite #? How can you ever stop splitting something in half? Hard to fathom on that level I guess. Logic tells me they are infinite?
 
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  • #2
I think you're looking at it all wrong. There is a view that Spacetime is pixelated into small volumes of Planck length. Rather like a digital photo where you can only zoom in so far.
 
  • #3
Makes it easier to comprehend. thanks
 
  • #4
This is one of many examples where Maths and 'Reality' part company at some stage.
 
  • #5
sophiecentaur said:
This is one of many examples where Maths and 'Reality' part company at some stage.
We don't know that yet. Some people presume it to be the case, but we are not anywhere near being able to probe length scales this small to actually see.
 
  • #6
DaleSpam said:
We don't know that yet. Some people presume it to be the case, but we are not anywhere near being able to probe length scales this small to actually see.
Agreed. But the Maths doesn't prove it either way. Any connection would, as yet, be a matter of faith, not based on available evidence.
 

Related to Planck time/length infinite and defined?

1. What is Planck time and length?

Planck time is the unit of time used in the Planck scale, which is the smallest scale at which the laws of physics still make sense. It is approximately 5.39 x 10^-44 seconds. Planck length is the unit of length used in the Planck scale, and it is approximately 1.61 x 10^-35 meters.

2. What is the significance of Planck time and length?

Planck time and length are important because they represent the smallest scale at which we can currently understand the universe. They also play a role in theories such as quantum gravity and in the study of the early universe.

3. Is Planck time/length infinite or defined?

Planck time and length are both defined values, meaning they have specific numerical values that are accepted by the scientific community. However, some theories suggest that at the Planck scale, space and time may become discrete and not continuous, which could impact their values.

4. Can we measure or observe Planck time/length?

At this time, we do not have the technology or tools to directly measure or observe Planck time or length. However, scientists are constantly working to improve technology and develop new theories that may help us better understand and potentially measure these values.

5. How does Planck time/length relate to the concept of the Big Bang?

The concept of the Big Bang suggests that the universe began as a singularity, a point of infinite density and temperature. At this point, the laws of physics as we know them break down, and it is believed that the Planck scale is the closest we can get to understanding this singularity. Therefore, Planck time and length are important concepts in the study of the Big Bang and the origins of the universe.

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