Different kinds of infinity in physics?

  • Context: Undergrad 
  • Thread starter Thread starter supernova1054
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Infinity Physics
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the concept of infinity as developed by Georg Cantor, particularly in relation to physics and the multiverse theory. Participants highlight the distinction between countable infinities, represented by integers, and uncountable infinities, represented by real numbers. The conversation emphasizes the importance of precise terminology in scientific discourse, especially regarding the implications of infinite galaxies and their subsets. Additionally, the mention of the book “Beyond Spacetime,” edited by Huggett, Matsubara, and Wuthrich, indicates a growing interest in the intersection of theoretical physics and the concept of infinity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Georg Cantor's theories on infinity
  • Familiarity with multiverse theory in physics
  • Knowledge of countable vs. uncountable infinities
  • Basic concepts of gravitational waves and their significance in experimental physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Georg Cantor's set theory and its implications for mathematics
  • Research the multiverse theory and its interpretations in modern physics
  • Explore the differences between countable and uncountable infinities in depth
  • Investigate the latest findings and theories related to gravitational waves
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, mathematicians, and anyone interested in the philosophical implications of infinity in scientific theories, particularly in the context of multiverse discussions and gravitational wave research.

supernova1054
Messages
20
Reaction score
11
TL;DR
Do different versions of infinity matter in physics?
I am reading several books on infinity as first developed by Georg Cantor.
Some physicists claim that the multiverse might be infinite. But they don’t seem to mention two of the kinds of infinity which might (exist?). It makes an infinite difference to make a bad pun. The integers define countable infinities but the real numbers are a larger infinity. I have read statements that if there are an infinite number of galaxies then there are an infinite number of myself in some infinite subset of this infinite multiverse. But that is not the case if this infinite number of galaxies is a countable infinity!
Don’t worry, I am not a mystic. I just find careless use of concepts unfortunate in scientific papers. Then again, many concepts are rather vague.

I just received the book “Beyond Spacetime” Ed. by Huggett, Matsubara and. Wuthrich.
Look very interesting.
I am also reading books and papers about gravitational waves — at last an experimental
field.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Thread is in Moderation until we can figure out what to do with the thread title or if it needs to be moved between forums...
 

Similar threads

Undergrad Integrity of matter / space and time
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
4K
Undergrad Nested universes across scales - existing literature?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
825
Undergrad Where do we use infinity in physics, and why?
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
5K
Graduate Integrating a physical quantity to infinity
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Undergrad Infinity: The Limit Concept and Cantor Transfinites
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
High School Taming Infinities: Examining Quantum Theory and Spacetime with Penrose
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
30K
Undergrad Does the concept of infinite parallel universes justify absurdities?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Undergrad In which sense(s) do square integrable functions go to zero at infinity?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Undergrad Does 'many worlds', imply worlds before the Big Bang?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Undergrad Infinite space in a finite bubble, in a Tegmark Level 2 multiverse?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K