Undergrad Could it be so easy? (Why is space three-dimensional?)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the dimensionality of space, specifically questioning why we perceive it as three-dimensional. It references a paper available on arXiv (http://arxiv.org/pdf/1502.01843v2.pdf) that proposes a model for the Universe's evolution, suggesting that additional dimensions may be too compact to observe. The authors emphasize that their approach to determining dimensionality from an underlying physical model is novel, although the validity of their assumptions remains uncertain. The conversation highlights the potential for alternative models to yield different dimensional results.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of general relativity and its implications on dimensionality.
  • Familiarity with theoretical physics models and their assumptions.
  • Knowledge of compactification in higher-dimensional theories.
  • Basic comprehension of the scientific method and peer-reviewed research.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the concept of compactification in string theory.
  • Explore alternative models of the Universe's dimensionality.
  • Study the implications of general relativity on spatial dimensions.
  • Examine the paper's methodology and assumptions in detail.
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Physicists, cosmologists, and students interested in theoretical physics and the nature of space and dimensions.

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The trouble with this sort of question is you have to be careful in your phrasing.
Maybe we observe 3+1 dimensions is because the other dimensions are curled up too tight for us to notice?
The paper depends on a model of how the Universe evolves, making assumptions about critical factors. The model may be wrong.
As the authors state right out, it is the general approach (finding dimensionality from an underlying physical model) that is different here.
No doubt others will look for other models to get other results.

I do remember seeing a chart for the kind of laws of physics you can get with n space-like coordinates and m time-like coordinates ... seem to have lost it.
 

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