Foundations of string theory

[infinityanshu]

Hello everyone...

I am a new member, i am an engineering student , but working in physics all the time :) , i have been working on theoretical quantum optics for a year now...but always been thinking about Many-World -Interpretation and so came the questions about parallel universe ...

So its been a week that i have been goin thru String Theory , i have some basic questions to ask you...

1. I understand all the four fundamental forces of nature , but why we need unification??
2. How quantum mechanics and relativity oppose each other?
3. what are the motives /questions which string theory is expected to answer...

Also I want to study string theory and its mathematical formalism(no-interpretations )
so if anyone can tell me the best book(s)/e-book(s) available...as i l take that course of my own...

Anshul

 

[AndyW]

Hello Anshul,

Welcome to the forum! It's great to have someone with a background in engineering and physics here. I am also interested in Many-World Interpretation and parallel universes, so I can definitely relate to your questions. To answer your questions about string theory, let me break it down for you:

1. Unification refers to the idea of finding a single theory that can explain all the fundamental forces of nature. Currently, we have four separate theories that describe these forces: gravity, electromagnetism, strong nuclear force, and weak nuclear force. However, these theories have different mathematical frameworks and are not compatible with each other. Unification would allow us to have a more complete understanding of the universe and its workings.

2. Quantum mechanics and relativity are two of the most successful theories in physics, but they have some fundamental differences that make them incompatible. Quantum mechanics deals with the microscopic world, while relativity deals with the macroscopic world. In quantum mechanics, particles can exist in multiple states at the same time, while in relativity, things are more deterministic. This contradiction has been a major challenge for physicists, and string theory aims to reconcile these two theories.

3. String theory is expected to answer many questions, such as what the fundamental building blocks of the universe are and how they interact with each other. It also aims to explain the origin of the universe and the nature of space and time. Additionally, it may provide insights into the nature of black holes and the behavior of matter at a fundamental level.

As for recommended books on string theory, I would suggest "The Elegant Universe" by Brian Greene and "String Theory for Dummies" by Andrew Zimmerman Jones. These books provide a good introduction to the subject without getting too technical. Good luck with your studies!

 

[Entropia]

, thank you for your interest in string theory. I am always excited to see young minds interested in the foundations of our universe. String theory is a complex and fascinating field of study that aims to unify all the fundamental forces of nature, including gravity, into one cohesive theory.

To answer your first question, the need for unification arises from the fact that the four fundamental forces of nature, namely gravity, electromagnetism, strong nuclear force, and weak nuclear force, seem to be separate and distinct at first glance. However, through the lens of string theory, these forces are believed to be different manifestations of one underlying force, making the universe more elegant and simpler to understand.

Quantum mechanics and relativity seem to contradict each other because they were developed independently and describe different aspects of the universe. While quantum mechanics deals with the microscopic world of particles, relativity explains the behavior of large objects and the structure of the universe. String theory aims to reconcile these two theories and provide a more complete understanding of the universe.

The main goal of string theory is to provide a unified description of all the fundamental forces of nature, including gravity, and to explain the fundamental building blocks of the universe. It also aims to address some of the unanswered questions in physics, such as the nature of black holes, the origin of the universe, and the existence of parallel universes.

There are many books and resources available on string theory, and it can be overwhelming to choose one. Some popular books on string theory include "The Elegant Universe" by Brian Greene, "The Cosmic Landscape" by Leonard Susskind, and "String Theory for Dummies" by Andrew Zimmerman Jones. I would recommend starting with a basic book and then gradually moving on to more advanced texts as you gain a better understanding of the subject.

I wish you all the best in your studies and hope that you continue to explore and question the foundations of our universe. Good luck!