String theory in 4 dimensions?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the complexities of string theory in four spacetime dimensions, highlighting that while it allows for construction, it typically does not maintain Lorentz invariance. The theory's obscurity stems from its lack of richness compared to higher-dimensional models, which can accommodate the complexities of the 4-dimensional Standard Model through compactification and brane constructions. The conversation also touches on foundational issues in physics, such as the limitations of calculus in describing subatomic phenomena and the philosophical implications of defining matter beyond strings.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of string theory fundamentals
  • Familiarity with Lorentz invariance
  • Knowledge of compactification and brane constructions
  • Basic principles of calculus and its application in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of Lorentz invariance in theoretical physics
  • Explore the concept of compactification in string theory
  • Study the role of brane constructions in higher-dimensional models
  • Investigate the philosophical implications of infinity in calculus and physics
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Physicists, theoretical researchers, and students interested in advanced concepts of string theory and its implications in modern physics.

TheHeraclitus
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TL;DR
Does Non-critical string theory really allow only 4 dimensions? Why it's not more popular?
Non-critical string theory, on Wikipedia it says:
Although this allows the construction of a string theory in 4 spacetime dimensions, such a theory usually does not describe a Lorentz invariant background.
Has it been experimentally disproven or are other reasons for its apparent obscurity?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Extra dimensions in string theory are a virtue rather than a nuisance. That's because theory in more dimensions is rich enough to accommodate a model as complex as 4-dimensional Standard Model, through various types of compactification or brane constructions. String theory in 4 dimensions, on the other hand, lacks such additional degrees of freedom so it lacks the needed richness. It could be a theory of something, but not a theory of everything.
 
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What are the strings in string theory made of? This question puts one back into square one. The reason Einstein's theory of relativity does not work in sub atomic level. Like many theories it involves Calculus. Calculus always assumes infinity as something real when it is not. That is the basis of these theories. We do not need strings to define matter. It could be simple presence vs non presence. Just like 1 and 0. When matter is compressed to the maximum (What thought to be infinity before but there is a limit to infinity which defines this maximum.) then you can achieve the zero. The same zero present in black holes and outside the universe or before big bang.
 
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