Are fundamental particles singularities in the general relativistic sense?

In summary, point particles are dimensionless and have finite density in reality, but are used as abstractions for simplified calculations. They are not infinitely dense singularities and do not exist in the general relativistic sense. Microscopic black holes, which have shorter lifetimes, are believed to evaporate into photons, while fundamental particles with much lower masses do not have this property.
  • #1
JDude13
95
0
Point particles have mass.
Point particles are dimensionless.
Would it stand to reason that point particles are infinitely dense and, thus, singularities?
 
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  • #2
It would, which is why point particles don't exist in reality, but are simply abstractions so we can simplify our calculations.

Real particles are quantically "smeared" across a given volume of space, which makes their density finite, but you're better off asking about it in the quantum mechanics forum.
 
  • #3
FAQ: Is a fundamental particle a singularity in the general relativistic sense?
No. If it was, it would be a black-hole singularity. But it is believed that microscopic black holes would evaporate into photons, whereas electrons, for example, do not seem to. The time a black hole takes to evaporate becomes shorter as the black hole gets smaller. When the black hole has a mass equal to the Planck mass, which is about 22 micrograms, the lifetime becomes on the order of the Planck time (or a few thousand times greater). All known fundamental particles have masses many orders of magnitude less than the Planck mass, so there is no way they could have long lifetimes if they were black holes.
 

What is infinite density?

Infinite density is a theoretical concept that describes a point where matter is infinitely compact and has infinite mass. It is often associated with the singularity at the center of a black hole.

How does infinite density occur?

Infinite density is thought to occur when matter is compressed to a point where its gravitational pull becomes infinite. This can happen in extreme conditions, such as the collapse of a massive star.

What are the implications of infinite density?

Infinite density has significant implications for our understanding of the laws of physics. It challenges our current understanding of gravity and the behavior of matter in extreme conditions.

Can infinite density be observed?

Infinity is a theoretical concept and cannot be observed directly. However, scientists can study the effects of infinite density, such as the bending of light near a black hole, to gain a better understanding of this phenomenon.

Could infinite density be harnessed for energy?

While infinite density may seem like a potential source of unlimited energy, it is currently beyond our technological capabilities to harness it. Moreover, the extreme conditions required for infinite density are not sustainable and would likely result in catastrophic consequences.

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