What are Chords? What is the smallest unit in physics?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers around the misconception that sound waves, referred to as "chords," are the fundamental building blocks of the universe. Participants clarify that this notion is incorrect and likely stems from a misunderstanding of string theory, where tiny vibrating strings represent the most basic units of matter. The analogy made by physicist Frank Wilczek compares atoms to musical instruments, emphasizing the relationship between quantum mechanics and sound waves. The conversation highlights the importance of accurate scientific communication regarding complex topics like quantum physics and string theory.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of string theory and its implications in physics
  • Familiarity with quantum mechanics concepts, particularly the Schrödinger wave equation
  • Basic knowledge of sound wave properties and harmonics
  • Awareness of scientific communication and common misconceptions in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "string theory fundamentals" to grasp the concept of vibrating strings as building blocks of matter
  • Study "Schrödinger wave equation" and its significance in quantum mechanics
  • Explore "Wilczek's musical analogy" in the context of quantum physics
  • Investigate common misconceptions in physics to improve scientific literacy
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, students of quantum mechanics, educators, and anyone interested in clarifying misconceptions about fundamental physics concepts.

Mason_Free
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What are Chords? What is the smallest "unit" in physics?

Someone told me they read a Yahoo AP article stating the most basic "building block" of the universe was a sound wave, and upon discovery this had been named a chord(or perhaps cord/kord/etc).

Again, this was an AP article, but I haven't found anything on it.

What is this?
 
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That's nonsense I'm afraid.
Are you sure this wasn't april the 1st?
 
Last edited:


I bet it was http://today.lbl.gov/2012/02/28/smoot-helps-grateful-dead%E2%80%99s-mickey-hart-interpret-music-of-the-cosmos/ .

More seriously, Wilczek has used a musical analogy. I can't locate it now, but IIRC it was about the Schroedinger wave equation and its eigenstates, which are analogous to the wave equation for sound and its harmonics.
 
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Yeah...Someone had told me it might be a misunderstanding of a string theory analogy ..something about tiny strings being the most basic bit of the universe, and these strings vibrate. With different vibrations creating a different particle, etc.
 

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