Can String Theory Explain Fundamental Particles Through Standing Waves?

In summary, the conversation discusses the role of string theory in describing the properties of fundamental particles through standing waves or resonances of strings. The theory suggests that one-dimensional vibrating strings produce different patterns for different particles, but has now been replaced by two-dimensional branes. From M theory, it is believed that 10 dimensions are needed for these branes to exist. It is noted that no resonance or higher mode of a string corresponds to a standard model particle, but rather the particles we know are actually "elastic rods."
  • #1
alantheastronomer
256
77
I've heard in a general way that string theory can describe the properties of the fundamental particles through standing waves or resonances of strings. Is this in fact the case, and if so, can someone provide a link to the relevant research papers?
 
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  • #2
:welcome:
Here at PF we do encourage some activity from posters; a simple google search, for instance. If you then ask more specific questions we can provide specific help. Asking for 'Relevant research papers' is a bit moot :rolleyes: .
 
  • #3
Yes, that's the case. In string theory it suggests that one dimensional vibrating string produces fundamental particle. Different pattern in vibration produces different pattern. Firstly it was suggested 1d strings but now replacing string there is 2 dimensional branes which are like loop structure. According to string theory, we need 10 dimensions for fermionic strings and more than 20 dimension for bosonic string to exist. But now from M theory we all need is 10 dimensions for these branes to exist. You can view this in Wikipedia..
 
  • #4
No resonance or higher mode of a string is expected to correspond to a standard model particle.

What happens is that the fundamental particles we know will correspond to zero modes in the 10D theory, or equivalently to particles produced in some extreme limit of the string tension. So the particles we know are actually "elastic rods" more than "strings".
 

What is string theory?

String theory is a theoretical framework in physics that describes the fundamental building blocks of our universe as tiny, vibrating strings instead of point-like particles. It is an attempt to reconcile the theories of general relativity and quantum mechanics.

How does string theory explain the behavior of particles?

In string theory, particles are not considered to be point-like objects, but rather tiny, one-dimensional strings that vibrate at different frequencies. The different patterns of vibration give rise to different types of particles and their unique properties, such as mass and charge.

What is the relationship between string theory and the Standard Model of particle physics?

The Standard Model is a well-established theory that describes the behavior of subatomic particles, but it does not incorporate gravity. String theory, on the other hand, attempts to unify all the fundamental forces of nature, including gravity, into one cohesive framework.

How many dimensions are required for string theory to work?

String theory requires 10 dimensions for its equations to work. This includes the three dimensions of space and one dimension of time that we experience in our everyday lives, as well as six additional dimensions that are compactified or curled up in tiny, imperceptible dimensions.

Can string theory be tested or proven?

Currently, there is no experimental evidence to support string theory, and it remains a highly debated and speculative theory. However, researchers continue to search for ways to test and validate its predictions through experiments and observations.

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