How do you create the big bang inside metamaterials?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of metamaterials and their potential use in reproducing the behavior of light in various spacetimes. The idea is based on the mathematical analogy between metamaterials and spacetimes, and could potentially provide an experimental method for confirming theoretical predictions. The conversation also mentions the use of analog computers in the past as a means of solving complex problems.
  • #1
changeseeker
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My knowledge in physics is very limited. Could someone please explain what this means in regular English? :uhh:

Thanks!

Published on http://bit.ly/vtJBW":

Metamaterials are substances with a permittivity and permeability that has been manipulated in a way that allows fine control over the behavior of light. They have famously been used to create an invisibility cloak that hides objects from view. Now Igor Smolyaninov, a physicist in the US, has calculated how metamaterials could be used for a much more profound demonstration: to reproduce the behavior of light in various kinds of spacetimes, in particular a (2+2) spacetime (one having two dimensions of space and two of time). His method is to show that there is formal mathematical analogy between the way metamaterials and spacetimes affect light. He goes on to show how a phase transition in a (2+2) spacetime leads to the creation of a (2+1) spacetime filled with photons, an event analogous to the Big Bang.

Here are the http://arxiv.org/abs/0908.2407" [Broken] (PDF).
 
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  • #2
Before we had digital computers, there were 'analog' computers. This were based on the concept of finding physical phenomenon that we could measure -- often electrically -- that had corresponding properties that mirrored a problem of interest.

When properly setup such a system could give immediate answers to problems that would be nearly impossible to solve either by hand or by early digital computers.

As I understand it, this paper shows that 'metamaterials' can be shown to behave the same way as various space-time models being explored theoretically -- many General Relativity ones and some even more general.

If this proves out then this would provide an 'experimental' method to help confirm some rather complicated predictions in some purely theoretical concepts. A very interesting idea.
 
  • #3
This is a mathematical exercise. An experimental proposal would be helpful.
 

1. How do you create the big bang inside metamaterials?

The big bang inside metamaterials is created through a process called "optical pumping." This involves using lasers to excite the metamaterials, causing them to emit intense bursts of energy similar to the initial explosion of the big bang.

2. What is the purpose of creating the big bang inside metamaterials?

The purpose of creating the big bang inside metamaterials is to study and better understand the conditions of the early universe. By recreating this event in a controlled environment, scientists can observe and analyze the behavior of matter and energy at extremely high temperatures and densities.

3. How are metamaterials different from regular materials in creating the big bang?

Metamaterials have unique properties that allow them to manipulate light and energy in ways that regular materials cannot. This makes them ideal for creating the intense bursts of energy necessary for simulating the big bang. Regular materials would not be able to withstand the extreme conditions required for this experiment.

4. What challenges do scientists face in creating the big bang inside metamaterials?

One of the main challenges is creating metamaterials that can withstand the intense energy and temperatures required for the experiment. Another challenge is accurately controlling and measuring the energy and conditions within the metamaterials to accurately simulate the big bang event.

5. What are the potential applications of studying the big bang inside metamaterials?

The study of the big bang inside metamaterials can provide insights into the behavior of matter and energy in extreme conditions, which can have applications in fields such as materials science, energy production, and cosmology. It may also lead to new technologies and advancements in our understanding of the early universe.

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