Fundamental point like particles?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the nature of fundamental point-like particles, specifically electrons, and whether they could possess shape, size, and structure that are currently undetectable by technology. The scope includes theoretical considerations and speculative reasoning regarding particle physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that it is possible for fundamental particles to have structure that is too small to detect with current technology.
  • There is speculation about the scale at which such structures might be observable, with references to the Planck length.
  • One participant argues that no measurement can definitively prove something is exactly zero, suggesting that measurements only set upper bounds on particle size and symmetry deviations.
  • Another participant challenges the arbitrary nature of choosing specific numbers like the Planck length without supporting arguments, indicating that such choices may lack physical significance.
  • There is a suggestion that the discussion could be closed due to the absence of experimental evidence or plausible theoretical predictions, implying a limitation on further speculative discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the possibility of fundamental particles having structure, with some agreeing on the speculative nature of the discussion while others challenge the validity of specific claims and numbers presented.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the speculative nature of the discussion, the reliance on theoretical constructs like the Planck length, and the absence of experimental evidence to support claims about particle structure.

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Is it possible that fundamental point like particles (ie electrons) are actually particles with shape size and structure that are too small for any of our current technology to detect?
 
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Sure, it's possible. How far do you think we'll need to zoom into see any structure?
 
Dr. Courtney said:
Sure, it's possible. How far do you think we'll need to zoom into see any structure?
Maybe Planck length, somewhere around there, but far too small for any of our current technology to see.
 
Yes, it is possible, as no measurement can prove that something is exactly zero. Instead, they set an upper bound on the difference between the maximum possible value and zero, and this as true of measurements of the electron size and deviation from perfect spherical symmetry as it is of anything else.
 
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Nav said:
Maybe Planck length, somewhere around there

If you're going to make up a number with no supporting argument, that's as good of a number as any... But also no better than any other number you might have chosen.
(If this comment confuses you, check out the wikipedia article on "Planck length" - it has less physical significance than the pop-sci press assumes).

We can close this thread now. The original question has been answered and in the absence of either experimental evidence or plausible theoretical prediction, any further discussion will run afoul of the rule prohibiting speculative discussion and personal theories.
 
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