Can a point-like particle really exist in a 0-dimensional universe?

In summary, a point-like particle is considered to be 0-dimensional and can exist within pure mathematics or physically in our universe. However, it is still a mathematical abstraction and can be viewed as an "excitation of the field" or a "wave function". Some physicists argue that it exists despite having no dimensions, but this idea is not widely accepted. The concept of space-time as a representation of particles is gaining traction in the scientific community.
  • #1
ChrisisC
54
4
How is it possible that a point like particle is 0 dimensional? Could it only
exist within pure mathematics? or actually exist physically in our universe?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
A point-like particle has no internal dimensions. It can still exist in an external observer's space-time frame.
 
  • #3
A point-like particle, with exactly 0 dimensions, is a mathematical abstraction. As far as anyone knows it seems to apply to something like an electron. But the common-sense view would be that it has 3-d extension in space like any other physical object, it's just too small for us to experimentally perceive its size.

The question is complicated by the fact that it can, mathematically, be considered as an "excitation of the field", or as a "wave function". IOW it's not a particle at all but behaves like one, usually, from our point of view. That's certainly possible. Look up "soliton" for an example of analogous macroscopic wave behavior.

Another complication is that some physicists are willing to consider it actually 0-dimensional, and yet (somehow) existing anyway. IMO that's just pseudo-science.
 
  • #4
secur said:
Another complication is that some physicists are willing to consider it actually 0-dimensional, and yet (somehow) existing anyway. IMO that's just pseudo-science.
To you maybe, but not to many well-respected physicists. It just requires the notion that our 3d space is not fundamental to the particle but part of an observer's representation of particles (just like temperature of a macroscopic system is a representation of the energy of constituent particles). This has been a growing idea for the last couple of decades. Check out, for example,

van Raamsdonk M., ``Building Up Space-Time With Quantum Entanglement'', Int. J. of Mod. Phys. D, 19 (14) 2429-2435 (2010)
 

Related to Can a point-like particle really exist in a 0-dimensional universe?

What is a point-like particle dimension?

A point-like particle dimension refers to the size or extent of a particle that is so small it can be considered infinitesimal, or having no physical size or volume. In other words, it is a particle with no measurable dimensions.

How is a point-like particle different from other particles?

A point-like particle is different from other particles in that it has no physical size or volume, whereas other particles such as atoms or molecules have measurable dimensions. Point-like particles are also considered to be fundamental, meaning they cannot be broken down into smaller components.

What is the significance of point-like particles in physics?

Point-like particles play a crucial role in physics as they are used to describe the behavior and interactions of subatomic particles, such as electrons and quarks. They are also a key concept in theories such as quantum mechanics and particle physics.

Can point-like particles be observed or measured?

No, point-like particles cannot be observed or measured directly due to their infinitesimal size. However, their effects and interactions can be observed and measured through experiments and calculations using principles of quantum mechanics and particle physics.

Are point-like particles a proven concept?

The concept of point-like particles is widely accepted in the scientific community and has been supported by numerous experiments and observations. However, some theories such as string theory propose that particles may have a small but finite size, challenging the idea of point-like particles. Further research and experimentation are necessary to fully understand the nature of particles and their dimensions.

Similar threads

Replies
5
Views
325
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
15
Views
860
Replies
13
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
28
Views
3K
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
3
Views
785
  • Quantum Physics
2
Replies
36
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
871
Replies
16
Views
1K
Back
Top