Is space quantized or is it seamless and smooth?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the nature of space, specifically whether it is quantized into discrete units or if it is seamless and smooth. Participants explore theoretical perspectives, implications for physics, and the potential for empirical testing of these ideas.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions reading about the concept of space being quantized into indivisible chunks, specifically at the Planck length, and seeks more information and clarification on this theory.
  • Another participant suggests that there is limited evidence supporting either the quantization of space or the idea of a smooth continuum, noting that many scientists lean towards the seamless interpretation due to the success of relativity.
  • Some participants argue that relativity may not be accurate in the quantum domain, indicating a potential disconnect between the two frameworks.
  • There is mention of challenges faced by theories that propose a quantized space-time, particularly concerning the Lorentz invariance principle.
  • Conversely, some suggest that the Lorentz invariance principle itself may struggle with the implications of a granular structure of reality.
  • Participants reference existing theories such as loop quantum gravity and causet theory as frameworks that consider quantized space-time.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of space, with some supporting the idea of a smooth continuum and others advocating for quantized models. The discussion remains unresolved, with multiple competing perspectives presented.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the lack of empirical evidence for either perspective and the unresolved nature of the relationship between quantum mechanics and general relativity.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to those exploring foundational questions in physics, particularly in the realms of quantum mechanics and general relativity, as well as individuals seeking to understand the implications of different theories regarding the structure of space-time.

jsirak2
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I recently read an article that stated something to the effect that it is thought that space is divided up into quantized little indivisible chunks, the size of which is called the Planck length.
is this a new theory and where can i find more information on it? ANY information
Specifically, how would you test this theory? Can it be tested? WHO can i talk to about it?
I am a simple mountain man who loves science and gets most of his data from magazines and some internet sources, which is where i recently read this article. (still looking for the original article so i can properly quote it here and provide a link). I don't get tv and have limited internet access which is why i am confused. any and all help will be appreciated. personally, i have some thoughts about a quantized space that i need to ask someone who understands more and is a physicist that can explain to a lay-person.
 
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There's not really a lot of evidence to support it either way, but because of the accuracy of relativity many scientists I think treat it as seamless and smooth.
 
I think that relativity is not that accurate in the quantum domain. As far as I know (but perhaps those who write so are thoroughly mistaken) the two domains have not been fused yet with a 100% success?
 
I have heard that theories based on the quantization of space-time have trouble when it comes to the Lorentz-Invariance principle...
 
Or, perhaps, Lorentz invariance principle has troubles when it comes to the possible granular structure of reality? Which should not be a surprise, because for any theory in physics there was, so far, a certain particular domain where it applied. When you go beyond the domain, the theoretical descriptions should be changed. At least that is what we have learned from the history of science. The dream of TOE is, as for now, just a dream, and not everyone id dreaming the same dream.
 
arkajad said:
Perhaps you can start with reading this thread: Quantized Space

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=64745

Thank you for the information, especially as i try to familiarize myself with the site. I appreciate it.

Sometimes there is more than too much information... kinda like trying to pick which shiny object is the prettiest.

Thanks again.
 
Space-time is smooth in the currently accepted major theories (GR and QFT). Quantum field theory takes a smooth background space-time on which it operators.

Theories in which the space-time is quantized include theories like loop quantum gravity, or causet theory.
 

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