An Infinte Number of Elementary Particles?

In summary, the tension of a string is determined by its vibrational modes and the underlying dynamics of the system. The lower and upper bounds for the tension are not yet known, but some have proposed that the graviton represents the minimum possible tension for a string. However, there may be even smaller possible tensions that have not been proven.
  • #1
Curious6
184
0
String and Tension

When reading about string theory, the introductory notion seems to be that the tension in a string is what accounts for its properties, allocating it its mass, charge...However, what is it that causes the actual tension in the string? It is said that the graviton represents the elementary particle for which the string has the minimum possible tension, but how can one be sure there is not an even smaller possible tension? What are the lower and upper bounds, or are these not yet known?
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
The tension of a string is determined by its vibrational modes and the underlying dynamics of the system. For example, in string theory the strings have an intrinsic tension due to the underlying quantum field theory in which they exist. This tension is determined by the string’s mass, length, and other parameters. Additionally, the tension can be altered by applying external forces, such as those caused by gravity or other fields.

The lower and upper bounds for the tension of a string are not yet known. There is no known way to determine the maximum possible tension for a string, however some theoretical physicists have proposed that the graviton may represent the minimum possible tension for a string. This means that if the graviton exists, then it would be the particle with the lowest possible tension for a string. However, it is possible that there may be even smaller possible tensions, although this has not been proven.
 
  • #3


The concept of an infinite number of elementary particles is a fundamental aspect of string theory. This theory suggests that all particles, including the graviton, are made up of tiny, one-dimensional strings vibrating at different frequencies.

The tension in these strings is what gives them their properties, such as mass and charge. However, the source of this tension is still a mystery. Some theories propose that it is due to the interactions between the strings themselves, while others suggest that it is a result of the strings being stretched in higher dimensions.

Currently, there is no definitive answer to the question of what causes the tension in strings. It is an ongoing area of research and investigation in the field of string theory. As for the lower and upper bounds of tension, these are also not yet known. It is possible that there may be an even smaller possible tension, but this is still a topic of exploration.

Overall, the concept of an infinite number of elementary particles in string theory raises many questions and challenges our understanding of the fundamental building blocks of the universe. As research and technology advance, we may eventually uncover more answers and gain a deeper understanding of the nature of strings and their tension.
 

1. What are elementary particles?

Elementary particles are the basic building blocks of matter and energy. They are the smallest units of matter and cannot be broken down into smaller components.

2. How many elementary particles are there?

There is currently no agreed upon number of elementary particles, as our understanding of them is constantly evolving. Some theories suggest there could be an infinite number of elementary particles.

3. What are the different types of elementary particles?

There are four main categories of elementary particles: quarks, leptons, gauge bosons, and the Higgs boson. Quarks and leptons make up the fundamental building blocks of matter, while gauge bosons and the Higgs boson are responsible for mediating forces between particles.

4. How are elementary particles studied?

Elementary particles are studied through experiments in particle accelerators, where particles are accelerated to high speeds and collided to observe their behavior. Scientists also use mathematical models and theories, such as the Standard Model, to understand the properties and interactions of elementary particles.

5. What is the significance of studying elementary particles?

Studying elementary particles helps us understand the fundamental building blocks of our universe and the laws that govern their behavior. This knowledge has practical applications in fields such as medicine, technology, and energy production.

Similar threads

  • Beyond the Standard Models
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Beyond the Standard Models
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • Beyond the Standard Models
Replies
7
Views
4K
  • Beyond the Standard Models
Replies
0
Views
368
  • Beyond the Standard Models
Replies
0
Views
862
  • Beyond the Standard Models
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Beyond the Standard Models
Replies
14
Views
3K
  • Beyond the Standard Models
Replies
19
Views
2K
  • Beyond the Standard Models
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Beyond the Standard Models
Replies
7
Views
4K
Back
Top