What is the concept of 'entering into another dimension' in science fiction?

[flyingpig]

Yeah, you know science fictions often have people going in and out into other dimensions? What does that even mean.

In Linear Algebra, the "dimension" with the dimension in science fiction are completely different.

For instance, how can someone enter R²??

 

[qasrimoe]

it s science fiction that s why

 

[KingNothing]

They generally mean another universe. At least, that's what I'd call it.

 

[Ryan_m_b]

Depending on the SF it generally means another universe or another "plane" of this universe. In this case it's more important to remember the F in SF

 

[bp_psy]

Yeah, you know science fictions often have people going in and out into other dimensions? What does that even mean.

In Linear Algebra, the "dimension" with the dimension in science fiction are completely different.

For instance, how can someone enter R²??

R ,R², R³...Rⁿ are names give to some well defined sets of mathematical objects and their dimension has nothing to do with dimensions in SF or even with the dimensions of physical 3D space. You can't enter R ,R² and you are not in R³ because they are purely abstract objects.

 

[Blibbler]

It's generally a plot device which allows the characters to move a large distance in a short time, typically faster than light.

Without hyperspace or warp drive or teleport or wormholes it would be very hard for your favourite characters to make it to their next episode on time.

 

[Algr]

IMO, an important element of the scifi idea of "another dimension" is you are in a place that could not be reached by ordinary motion. So if you ask "How many miles from London to Narnia" there is no possible numeric answer. To make this journey, something beyond physical motion is necessary.