Why mathematicians do not solve mathematical theories?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the reasons why mathematicians do not solve certain mathematical theories, particularly in the context of physics, such as quantum mechanics and theories of gravity. Participants explore the complexity of these theories and the challenges faced in finding solutions.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants argue that mathematicians do work on important subjects in physics, but their focus may vary, similar to physicists choosing different research areas.
  • It is suggested that the term "theory" encompasses the best models available in science, and that these models are not simply solvable equations.
  • Several participants emphasize the difficulty of the problems in question, indicating that they are complex and not easily resolved.
  • There is a notion that many physicists are also skilled mathematicians, and the fields of mathematics and physics are intertwined, influencing each other historically.
  • Some participants express frustration over the perceived simplicity of solving these theories, countering that the reality is much more complex and requires deep understanding.
  • Concerns are raised about the assumptions underlying the discussion, with a call for more references and clarity on the issues being debated.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the reasons behind the inability to solve these mathematical theories. There are multiple competing views regarding the complexity of the problems and the nature of the theories involved.

Contextual Notes

Some participants highlight that the discussion is based on assumptions that may not be fully articulated or referenced, indicating potential gaps in understanding the underlying issues.

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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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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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:
 
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.
 
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.
 
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.
 
Exactly, why don't we just solve it or make it happen. It's literall necessary to understand right? To set a fact.
 
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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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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