Why did the other dimensions stay small in M-theory?

  • Context: Graduate 
  • Thread starter Thread starter cansay27
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Dimensions Space-time
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

M-theory posits the existence of 11 dimensions, with our observable universe comprising 4 of these dimensions. The remaining 7 dimensions are theorized to be incredibly small, a phenomenon attributed to their stability and the conditions established during the Big Bang. The hypothesis suggests that if these dimensions were larger, the universe would be unstable, preventing the formation of planets and elements necessary for existence. Theoretical work by physicist Lisa Randall and the ADD model propose that branes could allow for larger dimensions, potentially up to a millimeter, although no empirical evidence currently supports this.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of M-theory and its implications in theoretical physics
  • Familiarity with the concept of dimensions beyond the observable universe
  • Knowledge of the Big Bang theory and its impact on cosmic structure
  • Basic grasp of Freund-Rubin solutions in the context of relativity
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of M-theory on cosmology and particle physics
  • Explore Lisa Randall's contributions to higher-dimensional theories
  • Investigate the ADD model and its predictions regarding extra dimensions
  • Study the mathematical framework of Freund-Rubin solutions in relativity
USEFUL FOR

Theoretical physicists, cosmologists, and students of advanced physics interested in the implications of higher dimensions and the foundational theories of the universe.

cansay27
Messages
14
Reaction score
0
From what I have gathered, M-theory states that there are 11 dimensions. We live in 4 of these dimensions, and I believe the common understanding is that the 7 other dimensions are incredibly small. At the time of the Big Bang, these 3 dimensions expanded along with the universe while the others remained small.

My question is this: Why did these other dimensions remain small? Also, if these dimensions had never expanded, does this mean that they would be found at the "center" of the universe?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
No one knows IF the other dimensions really exist and no one knows why they remained curled up tightly. One hypothesis is that our universe would be unstable if some or all of the extra dimensions were large...planets could not form, elements would not be produced, and so we would not exist. Such extra small dimensions apparently weaken gravity so our universe can "exist"..larger rolled up dimensions might weaken gravity further...

Lisa Randall has done some theoretical work suggesting that branes make much larger dimensions than previously envisioned possible...or maybe it was the ADD model...maybe even a millimeter in size...no evidence yet that I have read...

We have a LOT more theoretical mathematical models than "real" worlds...just because the math appears to work doesn't mean it has already done so...maybe tomorrow!

PS: There is no "center" of the universe...as far as we know...
 
cansay27 said:
My question is this: Why did these other dimensions remain small?

Because they are some variant of a kind of solutions of relativity called "Freund-Robin" solutions.
 

Similar threads

Graduate String theory and locality of small dimensions
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Undergrad Trying To Conceptualize Two Dimensions Of Time
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
5K
Graduate The Mysteries of the Other Dimensions: Uncovering the Secrets of M-Theory
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
12K
Graduate Why is it necessary to have 11 dimensions in M Theory?
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
5K
Undergrad Testing string/m-theory extra dimensions prediction
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
4K
High School Is Einstein's Space-Time Theory Overfitted or Simply a Visualization Tool?
  • · Replies 29 ·
Replies
29
Views
3K
Graduate What characterizes each dimension in M-theory?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Graduate Explaining the Hubble tension with fundamental physics
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
4K
Graduate Help a lay person understand this theory of the multiverse
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
4K
Graduate On the arbitrary idea of some String Theorists that some dimensions are small .
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
4K