Could space-time be a property of matter in string theory?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the nature of space-time in string theory, specifically its derivation from matter rather than being an inherent property. In classical and quantum field theories, space-time is introduced manually, allowing for arbitrary dimensions. In contrast, string theory, particularly in the bosonic string case, requires a fixed 26-dimensional space-time for self-consistency. Additionally, the possibility of dual theories with differing space-time dimensions is acknowledged, indicating a complex relationship between space-time and theoretical frameworks.

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  • Understanding of string theory fundamentals
  • Familiarity with quantum mechanics and the Heisenberg picture
  • Knowledge of classical and quantum field theories
  • Basic concepts of duality in theoretical physics
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  • Research the implications of 26-dimensional space-time in bosonic string theory
  • Explore the Heisenberg picture of quantum mechanics in detail
  • Investigate the concept of duality in string theory and its significance
  • Study the differences between classical and quantum field theories regarding space-time
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The discussion is beneficial for theoretical physicists, string theorists, and students interested in the foundational aspects of space-time and its relationship with matter in advanced physics frameworks.

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Could time and space just be properties of matter?
 
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Wouldn't this correspond (roughly) to the Heisenberg picture of QM: fixed states with evolving positions and momenta?
 
nuby said:
Could time and space just be properties of matter?
Usually, in the classical theory as well as quantum field theory, the concept of space-time is put in the theory "by hand."
For example, in a field theory, a particle can live in arbitrary space-time dimension. One can generalized our theory to any dimension he wants.

However, in string theory, the concept of space-time is somewhat different. It's a derived concept. For example, in the bosonic string case, the theory is only self-consistent in 26 space-time dimension.

Moreover, the concept of space-time can be different in a different theory. Actually I don't really understand this. But I heard from a talk that the concept of space-time could be different, so that two theories with different space-time dimensions could be "dual" to each other.
 

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