I need a list of all singularities in physics

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around identifying instances of singularities in physics, particularly in the contexts of relativity and quantum mechanics. Participants explore various examples and the nature of singularities, including their implications and the challenges in categorizing them.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests a comprehensive list of singularities in physics, mentioning black holes and the concept of renormalization in quantum mechanics.
  • Another participant cites the Friedmann equation as having a singularity at a=0, which corresponds to t=0.
  • Some participants express difficulty in compiling a list of singularities, noting that many arise from coordinate choices and questioning the reality of certain singularities.
  • There is mention of other singularities such as cosmic strings and domain walls, although their details are not elaborated upon.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that singularities exist in various contexts but express differing views on the nature and classification of these singularities. The discussion remains unresolved regarding which singularities are considered "real" or significant.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the complexity of defining singularities due to their dependence on coordinate choices and the subjective nature of what constitutes a "real" singularity.

SothSogi
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Hi there everyone :smile:

I'd like to have a list of all the instances where a singularity appears in physics, e.g., in relativity, causing the black hole thing.

Specific cases where

\frac{x}{0}

appears.

For instance, I heard that there is another case in quantum mechanics, or quantum field theory, and I think it is called renormalization.

Can you help me please?

Thank you very much in advance
 
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Hi SothSogi:

The Friedmann equation
FriedmannEq.png

has a singularity for a=0 which also corresponds to t=0.

Good luck.

Regards,
Buzz
 
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Buzz Bloom said:
Hi SothSogi:

The Friedmann equation
View attachment 197656
has a singularity for a=0 which also corresponds to t=0.

Good luck.

Regards,
Buzz
Thanks Buzz Bloom. That is exactly the kind of information I am looking for. Thank you very much :smile:
 
This is difficult to do because many singularities are the products of co-ordinate choices. You will have to sift through them all and determine which ones are, and I hate to use the word, real.
 
cosmik debris said:
This is difficult to do because many singularities are the products of co-ordinate choices. You will have to sift through them all and determine which ones are, and I hate to use the word, real.
Yes, I suppose. But here I am talking about well known singularities, like black holes, or that thing, renormalization which I do not know very well. I think there is another called cosmic string, or another called domain wall.
 

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