Could photons be 2D objects in String Theory?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion explores the concept of whether photons could be considered as two-dimensional objects within the framework of String Theory, particularly in relation to the existence of extra dimensions and the implications of relativistic effects on their nature.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that photons, traveling at the speed of light, might exist in a way that suggests they could be two-dimensional objects, given their unique relationship with time and space.
  • One participant challenges this idea by stating that applying relativistic formulations from the perspective of a photon is a mistake, referencing existing discussions and FAQs on the topic.
  • Another participant offers an analogy involving curved dimensions, likening it to the mechanics of certain 2D computer games, to illustrate how extra dimensions might be conceptualized.
  • This participant also discusses the equivalence of 5D gravity with one curled-up dimension to 4D gravity plus electromagnetism, suggesting a connection to the original question about photons.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of photons and the application of relativistic principles, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes assumptions about the nature of dimensions and the implications of relativistic physics, which are not fully explored or agreed upon by participants.

blah19
Messages
3
Reaction score
0
String Theory speculates that extra dimensions may exist. Obviously, it would be difficult to describe or imagine that, but is it possible that there are objects or particles that exist observing LESS dimensions. For example, photons travel at c meaning that time travels infinitely slow in for all other frames; since this is also true, it exists in all places along it's path at once. Could photons actually be 2d objects?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
blah19 said:
String Theory speculates that extra dimensions may exist. Obviously, it would be difficult to describe or imagine that, but is it possible that there are objects or particles that exist observing LESS dimensions. For example, photons travel at c meaning that time travels infinitely slow in for all other frames; since this is also true, it exists in all places along it's path at once. Could photons actually be 2d objects?

The fatal flaw here is that you assumed that you can apply relativistic formulation on the frame of reference of the photon. This is a mistake.

We have many threads, and a FAQ entry, on why you cannot do this.

Zz.
 
Okay, thanks for the reply, any recommended reading for this?
 
blah19 said:
String Theory speculates that extra dimensions may exist. Obviously, it would be difficult to describe or imagine that

In fact I can easily imagine that.

A curved-up dimension just means that if you move along its direction, very soon you return to the same place. Like in some 2D computer games (pacman), when you cross screen boundary, you reappear on the opposite side. It's just the difference of moving along a line and on a circle.

It's also intuitively explains why Kaluza-klein 5D gravity with one curled-up dimension is equivalent to 4D gravity + EM:
(1) In 5D space, translation invariance still holds: you can translate along any direction, which means along that tiny circle too.
(2) In GR, spacetime symmetries become local.
(3) Circle translational group is isomorphic to U(1) group.
(4) In 4D, requirement of extra local U(1) symmetry generates EM.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
5K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 0 ·
Replies
0
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
4K