Observations that broke the rules?

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SUMMARY

The discussion highlights significant observations in physics over the last 50 years that challenge established theories. Key examples include the detection of neutrinos, which initially showed lower counts than expected due to incomplete measurement methods, and the unexpected galactic rotation that contradicts Newton's laws of gravity. This latter observation has led to the concept of dark matter, suggesting that up to 96% of the universe is composed of undetectable matter, fundamentally altering our understanding of the cosmos.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of neutrino physics and detection methods
  • Familiarity with Newtonian gravity and its limitations
  • Knowledge of dark matter theories and their implications
  • Basic concepts of astrophysics and galactic dynamics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research neutrino detection techniques and advancements in measurement accuracy
  • Study the implications of dark matter on cosmology and astrophysics
  • Explore alternative theories to Newton's laws in the context of galactic rotation
  • Investigate recent discoveries in particle physics that challenge existing paradigms
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Physicists, astrophysicists, and students interested in the evolution of scientific theories and the implications of recent discoveries in the field of physics.

Brad12d3
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It seems like there has been a couple of times in the history of physics when we have observed something that seemed to break the rules of accepted theory. What do think were some of the most surprising discoveries in the last 50 years or so that broke the rules of what what we thought was possible?
 
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The first counts of neutrinos detected going through the Earth were much lower than expected. Later on they found there was more than one type of neutrino and the original prediction was justified. The measurement method was missing a lot of them!
 
Brad12d3 said:
It seems like there has been a couple of times in the history of physics when we have observed something that seemed to break the rules of accepted theory. What do think were some of the most surprising discoveries in the last 50 years or so that broke the rules of what what we thought was possible?

To dim little old me, the observation that galactic rotation defies Newton's laws of gravity is the most surprising and important. It is this observation that necessitates ideas of dark matter, and drives us to the uncomfortable position that up to 96% of the universe is invisible, undetectable, and may forever remain so. It's almost like being forced into believing in magic.

Respectfully submitted,
Steve
 

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