Coupla Questions: Universe Strings & Particles

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the nature of strings in string theory, particularly their density throughout the universe and their relationship to particles and energy. Participants explore conceptual questions about the behavior of strings, their role in particle formation, and the implications of string vibrations in various contexts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question whether the density of strings is constant throughout the universe and if they exist in a vacuum similar to the aether.
  • One participant suggests that the strings that make up a person's body are constantly vibrating and that this vibration is what allows for movement, challenging the idea of carrying strings along.
  • Another participant expresses uncertainty about the mechanics of string oscillation, questioning whether strings are projected out from light beams as photons.
  • A later reply supports the idea that strings can break and produce new strings that behave like photons, indicating a dynamic interaction between strings and emitted energy.
  • One participant raises a question about the differences between strings producing electrons and positrons, indicating a lack of understanding of the underlying mechanics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the mechanics of string behavior and the implications of string theory. There is no consensus on the nature of strings and their role in particle dynamics, indicating ongoing debate and exploration of the topic.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about string behavior and interactions remain unresolved, and the discussion reflects varying levels of understanding among participants regarding the technical aspects of string theory.

gbarnett
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1) Would the density of strings be constant throughout the universe,
would they exist in a vacuum like the aether?
2) Suppose I walk down the street. Do I carry the strings that make the particles of my body with me, or do strings along the way just vibrate to generate (new) identical particles.
 
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Originally posted by gbarnett
2) Suppose I walk down the street. Do I carry the strings that make the particles of my body with me, or do strings along the way just vibrate to generate (new) identical particles.

This appears to be a misconception. The strings replace the role of point particles in the Standard Model. You are made up of constantly vibrating strings, which behave (for the most part) just as point particles are supposed to. So, to speak of "me moving" is to speak of every particle (string), that helps compose your body, moving.
 
misconception should be no surprise

with this stuff. So the stuff I am made of is conjured by oscillating strings which I carry along with me (or they carry me along with them, whatever). I shine a light out into space and the energy which is light sends photons out into the void. The photons are also enerated by string oscillations, so strings are projected out from the beam?
Am I being too mechanical about this?
 


Originally posted by Ambitwistor
You're right. Some of the strings whose vibrations act like electrons in the flashlight break, and the new little bits of string that broke off vibrate to act like photons, and those strings fly off away from the flashlight, just as you would expect photons to do.

Nice way to give a non-technical explanation, Ambitwistor. Kudos. :smile:
 
How about

The first paragraph of a technical answer?
 
Thanks, I could foller that

It wern't too bad.
 
boy, I don't think I know enough

to respond to that, but speaking of "annihilating" how would the state of a string producing an electron differ from one producing a positron?
 

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