[Poll] Which scientific breakthrough will come first?

In summary, the conversation discusses the two potential breakthroughs of achieving relativistic speeds for macroscopic objects and ultra-relativistic speeds for microscopic particles. There is a tough choice between these two options, with one person leaning towards quantum gravity as it seems more feasible than sending a probe to proxima centauri before the sun goes red giant.

Which breakthrough will come first?

  • Unmanned interstellar probe travels to Proxima Centauri 4 light years away and returns images.

    Votes: 3 15.8%
  • Physicists invent a successful theory of quantum gravity which passes stringent experimental tests.

    Votes: 16 84.2%

  • Total voters
    19
  • #1
petergreat
267
4
As pointless as it is, let's speculate which of the two breakthroughs will come first!
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
To achieve the first, we need to accelerate macroscopic objects to relativistic speeds. To achieve the second, we (probably) need to accelerate microscopic particles to ultra-relativistic, Planckian speeds. That's the deal.
 
  • #3
Tough choice. I like quantum gravity. It appears more likely than sending a probe to proxima centauri before the sun goes red giant.
 
  • #4
Chronos said:
Tough choice. I like quantum gravity. It appears more likely than sending a probe to proxima centauri before the sun goes red giant.

Wow, someone sure has no faith in humanity :biggrin:
 
  • #5
I voted wit the majority on the quantum gravity. Theories are far easier to prove then the daunting obstacle of actually doing something.
 

1. What is the current leading scientific breakthrough that is expected to come first?

The current leading scientific breakthrough that is expected to come first is the development of a viable and effective COVID-19 vaccine. Many pharmaceutical companies and researchers are working tirelessly to develop a vaccine that can effectively combat the virus and help bring an end to the pandemic.

2. How close are we to achieving a cure for cancer?

While there have been significant advancements in cancer research, we are still far from achieving a complete cure for cancer. However, scientists are continuously making progress and developing new treatments that can prolong and improve the lives of cancer patients.

3. Will we ever be able to travel to other planets?

The possibility of interplanetary travel has been a topic of interest for many years, and scientists are continuously working towards making it a reality. While there are still many challenges to overcome, such as developing advanced propulsion systems and ensuring the safety of astronauts, it is certainly a possibility in the future.

4. When will we see a breakthrough in renewable energy sources?

The development of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, has been ongoing for decades. However, there has been significant progress in recent years, and many countries have set ambitious goals to transition to 100% renewable energy. It is expected that we will continue to see breakthroughs in this field in the near future.

5. Is artificial intelligence the next major scientific breakthrough?

Artificial intelligence (AI) has already made significant advancements in various industries, such as healthcare, transportation, and finance. While it is certainly a groundbreaking technology, it is difficult to predict if it will be the next major scientific breakthrough. However, it is expected that AI will continue to play a crucial role in shaping our future.

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