Why mathematicians do not solve mathematical theories?

In summary, mathematicians work on subjects of importance to physics, including theories such as quantum mechanics, multiverse, and branes. However, some may choose to focus on different topics. These theories are not "just theories" but rather the best models science has come up with so far. It is not as simple as solving an equation, as these problems are complex and require a deep understanding of both mathematics and physics. The difficulty lies in the fact that we do not have a complete understanding of these fields yet. The two fields have been influencing each other for centuries, and collaborations between mathematicians and physicists are ongoing. The solution to these problems may require new mathematics or new physics, and it is not a matter of simply applying a formula
  • #1
Jacob Dizen
Why mathematicians do not solve mathematical theories in different fields, name quantum mechanics that tries to describe gravity or any other theory such as multiverse/lqg/branes etc. It's just pure mathematics, only this language can fully describe universe, so why is it still just a theory? Why don't they solve it already?
 
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  • #2
You premise is false. Mathematicians do work on subjects of importance to physics. But some prefer other topics. It's like asking why aren't physicists working to cure cancer...

Nothing is "just a theory." The word theory applies to the best models science have ever come up with, like the theory of relativity.

Jacob Dizen said:
Why don't they solve it already?
Do you think that if mathematicians just spend some time on a physical problem, they would just come up with a solution, like 2+2=? Some of the best minds are working on these problems. They are hard problems.
 
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  • #3
Jacob Dizen said:
Why mathematicians do not solve mathematical theories in different fields, name quantum mechanics that tries to describe gravity or any other theory such as multiverse/lqg/branes etc.
Most physicist working on those fields can be also considered as quite skilled mathematician. It's just matter of focus and title.

Jacob Dizen said:
Why don't they solve it already?
Well, guess because it's difficult :wink:
 
  • #4
It is a model. Exactly. It is a problem because we don't know anything in these fields. Some sectors are totally unknown only because be do not have filled whole picture yet. 'Are working' it"s been long time since these theories popped up and still we do not have exact result either from our understanding or those unsolved equations which are the key. But why don't they just solve it? It is just an another equation.
 
  • #5
Jacob Dizen said:
Why mathematicians do not solve mathematical theories in different fields
DrClaude said:
Mathematicians do work on subjects of importance to physics.
Rive said:
Most physicist working on those fields can be also considered as quite skilled mathematician.
These fields are far less separated than you might think. As our modern physics is basically written in mathematics, the overlaps of actual research are there, even if not always visible to out standers, not to mention the many collaborations going on. The two fields have influenced each other since the seventeenth century, maybe earlier, depending on the measure you apply, and it didn't stop ever since. The difficulty is, as long as the solution to the problems you mentioned aren't known, it's also unknown to which extend new mathematics - and / or new physics is needed for a solution.
 
  • #6
Like.. there are dozens of theories of gravity and each of them is a model and may have a flaw but we already have a model considered correct only because it is a simplest explanation and it applies best to reality, however, it is not complete and there are uknowns. There are no facts, only best models and best theories no facts.
 
  • #7
Exactly, why don't we just solve it or make it happen. It's literall necessary to understand right? To set a fact.
 
  • #8
Jacob Dizen said:
But why don't they just solve it? It is just an another equation.
Do you know what that equation is? If you do, that would be very helpful and you can give it to us, so us skilled mathematicians can just solve the problem which has been puzzling us forever.

Do you think everything is ready made? We actually have to think about what we need to solve. Solving the most difficult theories in mathematics are not simple problems which we can apply a neat little formula to.

I suggest you look at what the millenial problems are. Read about them. Can any old theorem or mathematician solve those problems? The answer is no. It's not that simple. The world is not a textbook where a teacher gives you a formula and you apply it. The world is a complex beast that we have to learn how to tame, before being able to pull off tricks.
 
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  • #9
So they just can't...
 
  • #10
Jacob Dizen said:
So they just can't...
Why must you be pessimistic. You're attitude sounds arrogant and brash as if you've just solved it.

These problems are far beyond your basic math. They can't just be solved. And you can't brush away all of the mathematicians efforts just because they haven't cracked it yet.
 
  • #11
This thread is running in circles and is based upon many hidden - and which I find wrong - assumptions, but lacking actual references instead.

Thread closed.
 
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1. Why do mathematicians spend so much time on unsolved problems?

Mathematicians are passionate about solving problems and discovering new mathematical theories. Often, the pursuit of an unsolved problem can lead to new breakthroughs in mathematics. Additionally, many mathematicians are driven by curiosity and the challenge of solving difficult problems.

2. Is it possible that some mathematical theories are unsolvable?

Yes, there are some mathematical problems that have been proven to be unsolvable. This means that there is no solution or proof that can be found using the current methods and knowledge in mathematics. However, this does not mean that mathematicians will stop trying to find a solution or new approach to these problems.

3. Why don't mathematicians collaborate more to solve difficult problems?

Collaboration among mathematicians is actually quite common and can lead to significant progress in solving difficult problems. However, some problems may require a specific set of skills or expertise that only a few mathematicians possess, making it difficult to collaborate. Additionally, some mathematicians may prefer to work independently on a problem.

4. Are there any incentives for mathematicians to solve unsolved problems?

While there may not be monetary incentives for solving unsolved problems, there are other forms of recognition and prestige within the mathematics community. Additionally, solving a long-standing problem can have a significant impact on the field and can lead to advancements in other areas of mathematics.

5. How do mathematicians approach solving new problems?

Mathematicians use a variety of techniques and strategies to approach new problems. This may include breaking down the problem into smaller, more manageable parts, making connections to other areas of mathematics, or using computer simulations and algorithms. They also rely on their knowledge and intuition to guide them in the problem-solving process.

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