Why 1 dimensional discrete space?

In summary: String theory proposes that the structure of space is made up of these 1D loops, while Loop Quantum Gravity suggests a lattice of similar 1D loops. The advantage of this is that it allows for vibrations to travel at the speed of light without violating Special Relativity and avoids the issue of point particles. However, this logic could also be applied to a fundamental loop of 3 dimensions, so the practical benefits of a 1D entity over something with extended dimensions is not entirely clear. Some physicists have also tried to develop theories with particles that have extended dimensions, but it has not been successful. Ultimately, String Theory proposes a structure of space that is beyond our 3 dimensions, with strings being the fundamental building blocks in 10 or more
  • #1
Eh
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It seems that the idea of space being made out of some 1 dimensional fundamental entity is popular these days. Not only does string theory propose the structure of space to be 1D loops, but Loop Quantum Gravity proposes a lattice built of similar 1D loops. What is the advantage of this? I know that if you were to shake a string, the vibration would travel down the string at the speed of light, so as to not violate SR and avoid the point particle. But it seems one could apply the same logic to a fundamental loop of 3 dimensions.

So what is the practical benefits of a 1D entity over something of extended dimensions?
 
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  • #2
Well string theory begat brane theory, where the elements are of higher dimensions.

IIRC, physicists around 1960 tried to develop a field theory in which the electron was a little ball. It didn't work. Apparantly the element has to be "of measure zero" in the relevant space in order for the theory to even approximately converge.
 
  • #3
One dimension??
From all I can find, String Theory requires at least 10 dimensions, and in some cases more. See one "explanation" at:

http://www.damtp.cam.ac.uk/user/gr/public/qg_ss.html

It does remove any necessity for infinities, which I don't believe have any place in Cosmology anyway. Just personal opinion, but I can't buy String Theory either.
 
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  • #4
Maybe next a fractal dimension <1?

In 10 dimensional space, strings are the fundamental 1-D constructs of the string theory.

Also, aren't (quantum) probabilities often composed of singular (0-D) values?
 
  • #5
Originally posted by Labguy
One dimension??
From all I can find, String Theory requires at least 10 dimensions, and in some cases more.

I'm talking about the strings, which are 1 dimensional entities.
 

FAQ: Why 1 dimensional discrete space?

Why is 1 dimensional discrete space important in science?

1 dimensional discrete space is important in science because it allows us to simplify complex systems and make predictions about their behavior. It is often used in mathematical modeling and simulations, and has applications in a wide range of fields such as physics, computer science, and biology.

How is 1 dimensional discrete space different from continuous space?

The main difference between 1 dimensional discrete space and continuous space is that discrete space is made up of distinct, separate points while continuous space is infinitely divisible. In discrete space, there is a finite distance between each point, whereas in continuous space, there is no limit to how close two points can be.

Can real-world phenomena be accurately represented in 1 dimensional discrete space?

It depends on the specific phenomenon being studied. While 1 dimensional discrete space can provide useful approximations for many systems, some phenomena may require higher dimensions or continuous space to accurately represent. It is important for scientists to carefully consider the limitations of using 1 dimensional discrete space in their research.

How is 1 dimensional discrete space used in data analysis?

1 dimensional discrete space is often used in data analysis to simplify and categorize data. It allows for easier visualization and statistical analysis of data sets. For example, bar graphs and histograms are commonly used to represent discrete data in 1 dimension.

What are the limitations of using 1 dimensional discrete space?

One limitation of using 1 dimensional discrete space is that it may not accurately represent the complexity of real-world systems. It also may not be suitable for all types of data analysis, as some data sets may require higher dimensions or continuous space. Additionally, the results obtained from using 1 dimensional discrete space may not always be generalizable to other systems or situations.

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