Can Non-Conservation of Momentum Be Explained by an Asymmetry of Space?

In summary, when space becomes asymmetric, momentum is not conserved and a force is generated. This can be seen with gravity and potentially with other forces. However, it is uncertain if this non-conservation of momentum would be experienced as a force, as seen with two pool balls striking head on.
  • #1
azabak
32
0
In the same way that momentum is conserved if and only if space is symmetric it can also be said that whenever space turns asymmetric momentum (of each individual particle) will not be conserved generating a force. Thus can we equate force with an asymmetry of space?
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
  • #2
That's what we do with gravity, more or less. I suppose it's possible to do with other forces as well.
 
  • #3
It's not clear whether non-conservation of momentum would be experienced as a force.
Imagine two pool balls striking head on, one moving at speed U the other at speed V > U.
If each were to bounce back with the same speed it had before, energy would be conserved but not momentum. Seems to me you could not interpret this as the intervention of a mysterious force in a consistent way.
 

Related to Can Non-Conservation of Momentum Be Explained by an Asymmetry of Space?

1. What is force as space asymmetry?

Force as space asymmetry is the concept that states that the laws of physics are not the same in every direction in space. This means that certain forces may act differently depending on the orientation or direction in which they are applied.

2. How is force as space asymmetry related to Newton's laws of motion?

Force as space asymmetry is related to Newton's laws of motion because it challenges the assumption that forces act in equal and opposite directions. Instead, it suggests that forces may vary depending on the direction in which they are applied.

3. What evidence supports the idea of force as space asymmetry?

There is currently no direct evidence that supports force as space asymmetry. However, there have been several experiments, such as the rotating frame experiment and the Michelson-Morley experiment, that have shown discrepancies in the laws of physics that cannot be explained by traditional theories.

4. How does force as space asymmetry impact our understanding of the universe?

Force as space asymmetry challenges our current understanding of the laws of physics and could potentially lead to a new, more comprehensive theory of the universe. It also opens up new possibilities for understanding phenomena such as dark matter and dark energy, which have yet to be fully explained by traditional theories.

5. Are there any practical implications of force as space asymmetry?

At this point, there are no practical implications of force as space asymmetry. However, if further evidence is found to support this concept, it could have a significant impact on technology and our understanding of the universe, potentially leading to new advancements and discoveries.

Similar threads

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
13
Views
1K
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
22
Views
1K
Replies
12
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
872
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
31
Views
4K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
25
Views
2K
Replies
52
Views
2K
  • Classical Physics
Replies
28
Views
969
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
1K
Back
Top