Uniting Quantum Mechanics & General Relativity: 3 Forces & Geometry

In summary, physicists are currently trying to find a way to unite the theories of Quantum Mechanics and General Relativity. These two theories deal with different aspects of nature, with QM focusing on three forces (strong, weak, and electromagnetism) and GR focusing on the geometry of space. The question is how can these three forces and the concept of space be combined into one theory, also known as quantum gravity. Simply considering gravity as a force instead of a part of the geometry may not be enough to solve this complex problem.
  • #1
jines
5
0
Physicists try to unite Quantum Mechanics and General Relativity. QM deals with three forces in nature (i.e., strong, weak , electromagnetism), while GR deals with geometry of space. How can one unite 3 forces and geometry?
If one thinks of gravity as a force (not geometry), would one have a better chance at uniting it with the 3 other forces?
 
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  • #2
This is basically asking "what will a theory of quantum gravity look like"? That question is much too broad. If you have a specific source (textbook or peer-reviewed paper) that proposes a specific model of quantum gravity, you can ask questions about it in a new thread. This thread is closed.
 
  • #3
This is a very deep question and to think that by adjusting the wording i.e. considering gravity as a force will solve it is being very naive.

Here's a laymans discussion on the question:

http://science.howstuffworks.com/sc...nite-quantum-mechanics-general-relativity.htm

Basically the difference is that GR treats spacetime as a smooth continuous entity whereas quantum mechanics treats spacetime as quantized entity. It's like how lines are drawn on paper versus a computer screen. On paper or ideally, the line continuous at any magnificationwhereas on a computer screen as you zoom in you begin to see it's pixelated nature.
 
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Related to Uniting Quantum Mechanics & General Relativity: 3 Forces & Geometry

1. What is the relationship between quantum mechanics and general relativity?

The relationship between quantum mechanics and general relativity is still a topic of debate among scientists. Currently, the two theories are not compatible with each other and many scientists believe that a unified theory is needed to fully understand the workings of the universe.

2. How do the three forces (strong, weak, and electromagnetic) fit into this unified theory?

In this unified theory, the three forces are considered to be different aspects of the same fundamental force. This means that at high energies, the three forces merge into one force, known as the grand unification force. However, at lower energies, the three forces appear to be separate and distinct.

3. What role does geometry play in this theory?

In this theory, geometry is seen as a fundamental aspect of the universe. It is used to describe the curvature of space-time, which is affected by the presence of matter and energy. The theory states that the geometry of space-time is directly related to the distribution of matter and energy in the universe.

4. Is there any experimental evidence to support this theory?

Currently, there is no experimental evidence to support this theory. However, many scientists are working on experiments and observations that could potentially provide evidence for a unified theory. This is a challenging task as it requires merging two very different theories, and it may take many years of research and experimentation to confirm or disprove this theory.

5. How would a successful unification of quantum mechanics and general relativity impact our understanding of the universe?

If a unified theory is successfully developed, it would greatly impact our understanding of the universe. It would provide a more complete and comprehensive understanding of the fundamental forces and laws that govern the universe. This could potentially lead to advancements in technology and new discoveries in the field of physics.

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