If your model predicts Tachyons is that bad?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the implications of tachyons in theoretical physics models. Initially perceived as indicators of model anomalies, recent insights suggest that tachyons are not inherently detrimental. However, their presence typically signifies an unstable vacuum, as evidenced in early bosonic string theories, which were later rectified through the introduction of supersymmetry. Models that predict tachyons without prior assumption are deemed fundamentally flawed, although intentionally incorporating them can serve as a tool for exploring existing theoretical limitations.

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  • Understanding of theoretical physics concepts, particularly tachyons and their implications.
  • Familiarity with bosonic string theory and its historical context.
  • Knowledge of supersymmetry and its role in stabilizing models.
  • Basic grasp of vacuum stability in quantum field theory.
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  • Research the role of tachyons in quantum field theory.
  • Explore the historical development of bosonic string theory and its challenges.
  • Study the principles of supersymmetry and its applications in modern physics.
  • Investigate the concept of vacuum stability and its significance in theoretical models.
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The discussion is beneficial for theoretical physicists, researchers in quantum field theory, and students exploring advanced concepts in string theory and model stability.

g.lemaitre
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When I first learned about Tachyons I was lead to believe that they meant your model had anomalies and you needed to go back to the drawing board and come up with a new model. But lately I've been hearing that they are not all that bad. I wish I had some direct quotes but I don't. Are tachyons anathema in the physics community? Do they automatically rule your model out if your model predicts them?
 
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They're very bad. Not as much the tachyons themselves, but the fact that a theory with tachyons predicts an unstable vacuum. This was the problem with the early bosonic string theories, which was resolved by including supersymmetry.
 
What Mark said.
Tachyons, and tachyonic fields are not exactly anathema - the math is kinda a mental exercise for theorists. But them showing up in a model that does not start out by presupposing them basically means the model is junk.

Presupposing them is basically saying you are deliberately making a junk model - but carefully. You may want to do this to expose possible flaws in the existing physics that may lead to new discoveries.
 

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