Can Strings in 'Empty Space' Explain Gravitational Pull?

In summary, string theory suggests that strings can interact with each other and exchange gravitons, which could explain gravity. The space in which strings exist is also affected by the concept of branes, leading to a complex physical theory. Further reading is recommended, with "The Elegant Universe" being a suggested starting point.
  • #1
Ben*
2
0
ok...I'm a dummy. been doing some novice reading on string theory lately. couple questions: are strings in 'empty space'? and if so, is this how the gravitational pull of a body is exerted on another body...thru the interaction of strings in-between?

thanks.
 
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  • #2
Ben* said:
ok...I'm a dummy. been doing some novice reading on string theory lately. couple questions: are strings in 'empty space'? and if so, is this how the gravitational pull of a body is exerted on another body...thru the interaction of strings in-between?

thanks.

String theory has a graviton, produced as a vibration mode of a "closed bosonic string". Strings can interact with each other, in fact that is the big subject of introductory string theory. So strings can exchange gravitons, and this would implement gravity a la string theory.

The space strings exist in is complicated by the existence in the theory of branes, like pieces of n-dimensional space for various values of n. Strings not only interact with branes , they can live in branes, or join branes together, and by playing around with these ideas physicsts have come up with huge amount of physical theory.
 
  • #3
ok...thx. need to do some more reading. got any suggestions? just finished the 'Elegant Universe'.
 

Related to Can Strings in 'Empty Space' Explain Gravitational Pull?

1. What are strings in space?

Strings in space, also known as cosmic strings, are hypothetical one-dimensional objects that are thought to exist in the fabric of space-time. They are believed to be extremely long and thin, and may be formed during the early stages of the universe.

2. How are strings in space different from regular strings?

Strings in space are very different from regular strings, such as those used in musical instruments. Cosmic strings are made of energy and have no physical thickness, while regular strings have a defined length and diameter. Additionally, cosmic strings are thought to have immense amounts of energy and can have a significant effect on the surrounding space-time.

3. Can strings in space be observed?

Currently, there is no direct evidence of the existence of cosmic strings, so they cannot be observed directly. However, scientists have proposed various methods to indirectly detect their presence, such as through gravitational lensing or their effect on the cosmic microwave background radiation.

4. What is the significance of strings in space?

The existence of strings in space could have significant implications for our understanding of the universe. If they are proven to exist, they could help explain the formation of large-scale structures like galaxies and galaxy clusters. They could also provide insights into the early stages of the universe and the fundamental laws of physics.

5. Are strings in space related to string theory?

Yes, strings in space are related to string theory, which is a theoretical framework that attempts to unify all fundamental forces and particles in the universe. String theory suggests that at the most fundamental level, all particles are made of tiny strings that vibrate at different frequencies, giving rise to different particles. Cosmic strings are thought to be a different manifestation of these strings at a much larger scale.

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