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Loren Booda
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Will physics be first to attain unification, or has another branch of science already done so?
hypnagogue said:Could you be more explicit about what you mean by "unification"? What criteria could we use to judge whether some field has attained "unification" or not?
Suppose I simplify the operation of multiplication of any two numbers out of an infinite set of possible operations, to the following rules:Loren Booda said:In mathematics (e. g., physics) is any system simplified without losing information?
Such a transformation in General Systems Theory is called a "homomorphism", when a many to one transformation, applied to the more complex system, can reduce it to a form that is isomorphic with the simpler. All systems can be thus simplified to a new form when its states can be grouped suitably to form a homomorphic system. A good introduction reference is by Ross Ashby, 1956, An introduction to cybernetics. I am no expert, but perhaps others are and can expand the idea that theory of unification can be derived mathematically from theory of cybernetics.Loren Booda said:One criterion for unification might be a transformation of the system, mathematically expressed, such that it acquires a greater simplicity relative to a subset of observers. Other subsets may necessarily (by conservation) perceive the system as more complex under the same transformation.
Loren Booda said:Will physics be first to attain unification, or has another branch of science already done so?
Yes, science has successfully developed and proven many unified theories that explain complex phenomena in the natural world. Examples include the theory of evolution, the theory of relativity, and the theory of plate tectonics.
A unified theory is one that can explain and predict a wide range of observations and phenomena using a single set of principles or equations. Scientists use a combination of experimental evidence, mathematical models, and logical reasoning to determine if a theory is unified.
No, scientific theories are constantly evolving and subject to revision as new evidence is discovered. While unified theories may provide a comprehensive explanation for a particular phenomenon, they are always open to further investigation and refinement.
Yes, it is common for scientific theories to have exceptions or limitations. However, a truly unified theory should be able to explain the majority of observations and phenomena within a specific field or domain.
Yes, scientists are continually working to refine and expand upon existing unified theories, as well as develop new ones. Some current areas of research include unifying the theories of quantum mechanics and general relativity, and developing a grand unified theory that can explain all fundamental forces in the universe.