Is Distance Between Positions in Infinite Space Always Finite?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of distance in infinite space, specifically whether the distance between any two positions A and B is always finite. It is established that in Euclidean 3-space, if A and B have finite coordinates, the distance is finite. However, the conversation explores scenarios in an infinite universe where certain points may be unreachable due to the universe's expansion, leading to infinite distances between disconnected regions. The participants clarify that while distances can be arbitrarily large, each individual journey remains finite.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Euclidean geometry and distance metrics
  • Familiarity with concepts of infinite sets and cardinality
  • Basic knowledge of mathematical space and topology
  • Awareness of the implications of the universe's expansion on distance
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  • Study the properties of Euclidean space and distance metrics
  • Explore the concept of compactness in topology
  • Learn about the implications of the expanding universe on cosmological distances
  • Investigate set theory, particularly infinite sets and their properties
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Mathematicians, physicists, and students of mathematics interested in the concepts of distance in infinite spaces, topology, and the implications of cosmological theories on spatial relationships.

  • #31
netzweltler said:
step 1: at t = 0 I am shifting the line [0, 1] to position [-0.5, 0.5]
step 2: at t = 0.5 I am shifting the line at [-0.5, 0.5] to position [-0.75, 0.25]
step 3: at t = 0.75 I am shifting the line at [-0.75, 0.25] to position [-0.875, 0.125]
...

All shifting is done before t = 1. No action is done at t = 1. Countable infinity doesn't allow a last shift at t = 1, which clearly is needed for point -1 to be covered.

...what? Where does "countable infinity" enter into all of this? And what does it have to do with "moving at t=1"? You aren't even bothering to explain what it is that you're doing or asking, and it's making it very difficult to answer any of your questions. What does this have to do with "positions in infinite space"?
 

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