Opinions on Theory & Possibility of 2 Times

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the theoretical concept of having two time dimensions within the framework of F-theory and its implications in higher-dimensional physics. Participants explore the mathematical and physical interpretations of this idea, as well as its compatibility with existing theories like supersymmetry.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses curiosity about the theory of two times and its feasibility.
  • Another participant explains that F-theory mathematically incorporates an additional time direction, suggesting it serves as a useful geometric framework for understanding aspects of type IIB theory in a (9+1) dimensional context.
  • A follow-up question seeks clarification on the nature of this extra time direction and its perceived possibility.
  • A different participant discusses the constraints of supersymmetry, noting that it typically operates in 11 or fewer dimensions with one time dimension, and highlights potential issues with particles of higher spin in more dimensions.
  • This participant proposes that introducing two time dimensions in a 12-dimensional framework could resolve some of these issues, indicating that the metric signature would differ from conventional models.
  • They also suggest that the concept of two time dimensions may be more of a mathematical tool rather than a physical reality, particularly in relation to the SL(2,Z) symmetry in IIB theory.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion features multiple competing views regarding the implications and interpretations of two time dimensions, with no consensus reached on the feasibility or physical reality of the concept.

Contextual Notes

Participants note limitations related to the mathematical treatment of higher dimensions and the specific conditions under which supersymmetry operates, indicating that the discussion is contingent on these theoretical frameworks.

Quantum1332
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i was wondering what some of your opinions were on this theory. I was also wondering how it is possible to have 2 times.
 
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While mathematically, F-theory describes a spacetime with an additional time direction, physically it's simply a convenient geometry in terms of which to understand a certain aspect of the type IIB theory in the usual (9+1) spacetime dimensions.
 
josh1 said:
While mathematically, F-theory describes a spacetime with an additional time direction, physically it's simply a convenient geometry in terms of which to understand a certain aspect of the type IIB theory in the usual (9+1) spacetime dimensions.

But what exactly is this extra time direction, and what makes it seem possible?
 
To my understanding, super symmetry only works in 11 or less dimensions is you're working with 1 time dimension and the rest spacial. Beyond that you get particles of spin greater than 2 and they have problems.

You can, however, remove these problems in 12 dimensions if you have 2 time dimensions, in that your metric signature would be (-,-,+,...,+) (or whatever your preference for writing the signature signs is ;)). It's much less of a physical situation, more of a mathematical tool to conveniently talk about some things in IIB theory (it's SL(2,Z) symmetry I think).
 

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