Strings & Manifolds: Do Strings Vibrate in 10-11D?

In summary, according to string theory, strings vibrate in 10-11 dimensions because they are considered one-dimensional objects that can exist and vibrate in more than 3 dimensions, with the extra dimensions being compactified at a very small scale. These higher dimensions play a crucial role in shaping the universe and the behavior of strings. However, we cannot directly observe these extra dimensions, although some theories suggest we may be able to indirectly observe their effects. Many scientists believe in string theory because it offers potential solutions to some of the biggest mysteries in physics and attempts to reconcile the theories of general relativity and quantum mechanics.
  • #1
vasantharam
1
0
In string theory are the strings themselves the manifolds? or are the strings vibrating in a 10 or 11-d manifold?.
 
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  • #2
In old-fashioned string theory (omitting M-theory) one-dim. strings move through a ten-dim. space-time manifold and therefore create a two-dim. string-manifold. The endpoints of open strings are attached to so-called branes which again are sub-manifolds.
 
  • #3
Strings may also be described as one dimensional branes, 1-brane; that's a reference to one dimensional space, no time component as Tom describes above...
 

1. Do strings really vibrate in 10-11 dimensions?

Yes, according to string theory, strings vibrate in 10-11 dimensions. This is because string theory suggests that the universe is made up of tiny, vibrating strings rather than point-like particles. These strings exist in a 10-dimensional space, with 6 of those dimensions being curled up so small that we cannot detect them.

2. How can strings vibrate in more than 3 dimensions?

In string theory, the strings are considered to be one-dimensional objects, meaning they have length but no width or height. This allows them to exist and vibrate in more than 3 dimensions. Additionally, the extra dimensions are thought to be compactified, or curled up, at a very small scale, making them imperceptible to us.

3. What does it mean for strings to vibrate in higher dimensions?

When we talk about strings vibrating in higher dimensions, we mean that the string is vibrating in a higher-dimensional space. This concept can be difficult to visualize, as we are limited to experiencing only three dimensions in our everyday lives. However, in string theory, these extra dimensions play a crucial role in shaping the universe and the behavior of the strings themselves.

4. Can we observe these extra dimensions?

No, we cannot directly observe these extra dimensions. They are thought to be curled up at a microscopic level, making them too small for us to detect with our current technology. However, some theories suggest that we may be able to indirectly observe the effects of these dimensions through experiments in particle physics or cosmology.

5. Why do some scientists believe in string theory?

String theory is a mathematical framework that attempts to reconcile the theories of general relativity and quantum mechanics, which are currently two of the most successful theories in physics. It also offers potential solutions to some of the biggest mysteries in physics, such as the unification of all forces and the nature of black holes. While it is still a highly debated topic, many scientists are drawn to string theory for its potential to provide a more complete understanding of the universe.

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