About applicability of singularities in Physics

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the applicability of singularities in physics, particularly higher derivatives of functions that exhibit jumps at specific points. The original poster inquires whether such singularities could represent subatomic particles and contribute to a unified theory of physics. A response clarifies that while singularities are often associated with poles and zeros in functions, the inquiry may actually pertain to discontinuities, which can occur in higher-order derivatives. An example provided is shock waves, which illustrate how discontinuities manifest in physical phenomena. The conversation highlights the potential relevance of these mathematical concepts in understanding complex physical theories.
rajesh_d
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Hello, I am new here and this is my first post. Kindly let me know if my post is off topic.

My question is about the applicability of singularities of a function in Physics. By singularity I mean one of the higher derivatives (>2) of a function jumping at a point. Is there any conceptual use of such singularities in a physical theory. Could they be used to represent the subatomic particles. Can this be helpful for a unified theory (of large and small scale)? I'd be glad to hear some discussion on it.
 
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I wonder why there isn't any response/reply.
 
Hi rajesh_d,

Poles and zeros for certain functions (which occur often in polynomials when working with such things as filters for example) might be considered singularities.

But it sounds as though you mean discontinuities rather than singularities. If so, Yes, higher order derivatives can be discontinuous. One physical example is a shock wave.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shocks_and_Discontinuities_(MHD)
 

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