A question on the superstrings theory

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the nature of vibrations in superstrings theory, specifically questioning what causes these vibrations and whether they have always existed or are influenced by external forces. The scope includes theoretical aspects of string theory and its implications in cosmology.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses fascination with superstrings theory and questions the origin of string vibrations, asking if they are caused by a force or if they have always been vibrating.
  • Another participant suggests that zero point energy is responsible for the vibrations of strings, indicating that there are excited states due to interactions.
  • A further contribution explains that at all energies probed by experiments, the universe is described by quantum fields, where each mode behaves like a harmonic oscillator exhibiting zero-point fluctuations due to the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle.
  • This participant also notes that as energies increase, the universe may be better described by strings, which can be open or closed, and that their vibrations are a consequence of the uncertainty principle.
  • A separate post references a blog entry related to the topic but does not directly address the question of string vibrations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present various viewpoints on the cause of string vibrations, with some suggesting zero point energy while others elaborate on quantum field behavior. No consensus is reached on the fundamental nature of these vibrations.

Contextual Notes

The discussion involves complex concepts from quantum mechanics and string theory, with participants expressing varying levels of understanding and expertise. Some assumptions about the nature of energy and vibrations remain unexamined.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in theoretical physics, particularly those exploring string theory and its implications in cosmology, may find this discussion relevant.

dimitris
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A question on the superstrings theory...

I have read almost every article there is concerning the superstrings theory and i must say that it fascinates me... Cosmology in general is fascinating

But even though my physics knowledge is limited (I am an economist) i have a question...

The strings vibrate... WHAT causes their vibration ??
is there a force that makes them vibrate or have they been vibrating since forever ? and if so, how is it possible ?

thank u
 
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dimitris said:
I have read almost every article there is concerning the superstrings theory and i must say that it fascinates me... Cosmology in general is fascinating

But even though my physics knowledge is limited (I am an economist) i have a question...

The strings vibrate... WHAT causes their vibration ??
is there a force that makes them vibrate or have they been vibrating since forever ? and if so, how is it possible ?

thank u

As I recall, there is a zero point energy with which all strings vibrate, and then from there, there are excited states due to interactions.
 


At all energies probed by experiments to date, the universe is accurately described as a set of quantum fields. If we take the Fourier transform of a free quantum field, each mode of a fixed wavelength behaves like a simple harmonic oscillator. A quantum mechanical property a simple harmonic oscillator is that the ground state exhibits zero-point fluctuations as a consequence of the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle, with energy [tex]E=\frac{1}{2}\hbar\omega[/tex].

As we progress to higher energies it may be that the universe is more accurately described by extended one one dimensional objects (strings). These strings can be open or closed (eg there ends are free, or joined). In a similar way to a harmonic oscillator, these strings have an elementary vibration which is a consequence of the HUP.
 


dimitris said:
I have read almost every article there is concerning the superstrings theory and i must say that it fascinates me.
I am fearful of violating a rule should I re-post a poem here, so I will instead refer you to my blog entry entitled: Strings Attached. Please tell me what you think.
-- Poeteye
 

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