Meet an alien from another planet

In summary, in order to determine if an alien is made of antimatter without touching it, one can compare the rate of C-P violated processes. This means observing the rate of CP violating processes generated by the alien, as it would differ from those generated by anti-particles. This concept was referenced in a joke by Feynman in his lectures on physics.
  • #1
Soff
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Suppose you are going to meet an alien from another planet. How can you make sure that the alien is not build of antimatter without touching it?

My teacher told me that I have to compare the rate of the C-P violated processes. I didn't understand this point.
 
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  • #2
Throw something at him ;)
 
  • #3
if CP is a good symmetry between particles and anti-particles, then CP violation means that reaction rates between set of particles will be different from those rates generated by a set of anti-particles. so by observing the rate of CP violating processes generated by these aliens you can tell (in principle, not sure this is practical) whether they are made of anti-matter.
 
  • #4
Your teacher was referring to a joke that Feynman had in his famous lectures. Go to the library and look up Feynman's lectures on Physics Volume one pages 52-10 to 52-11.
 

1. What does the alien look like?

The appearance of an alien from another planet would vary greatly, as it would depend on the planet they come from. They could have a humanoid form, with two arms and legs, or they could have a completely different body structure. Some may have fur or scales, while others may have no visible physical features at all.

2. How do they communicate?

Communication methods for aliens from another planet may also vary. It is possible that they may have a spoken language, similar to ours, or they may use telepathy. Some may even communicate through a series of clicks or other sounds. It is also possible that they may have advanced technology that allows them to communicate with us in a language we can understand.

3. Do they have advanced technology?

It is likely that aliens from another planet would have advanced technology, as they would have had to develop it in order to travel through space. This technology could include advanced forms of transportation, communication, and other discoveries that we have not yet made on Earth.

4. What is their purpose for visiting Earth?

The reasons for an alien's visit to Earth would depend on their individual species and motives. They could be explorers, researchers, or even refugees from their own planet. Some may also have hostile intentions, while others may simply be curious about our planet and its inhabitants.

5. Are they friendly or dangerous?

This is a difficult question to answer, as it would depend on the individual alien and their intentions. Some may be friendly and want to establish a peaceful relationship with humans, while others may see us as a threat and act accordingly. It is important for us to approach interactions with aliens from a place of caution and respect.

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