Does each superstring extradimension correspond to a gauge symmetry?

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In summary, the number of dimensions required for a string theory is determined by the demand for spacetime Poincare invariance and unitarity. In the case of local supersymmetry, the number of dimensions must be 10, but in M-theory, 11 dimensions are possible. Gauge symmetries arise from the freedom to specify the transformation of open string ends, and they can also be obtained from supergravity in string theory.
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Loren Booda
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Does each superstring extradimension represent a (gauge) symmetry?
 
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No. The number of dimensions required for a string theory are set by two things: demanding spacetime Poincare invariance (ie, input from special relativity) and unitarity (which for us means that physical processes are described using a conserved inner product on a positively normed Hilbert space). These are requirements of a quantum field theory as well.
In the case of local supersymmetry of the worldsheet of a string, the number of dimensions must be 10. However, as string theory was explored and fleshed out, it was found that you can consistently have 11 dimensions in a particualar phase of M-theory...M-theory is a step beyond the simple quantization of strings, where the restriction to 10 dimensions is relaxed.
Gauge symmetries (in particular, non-abelian ones) arise is various ways...one is due to the freedom to specify that the ends of an open string, e.g., transform in some representation of some group (they are "charged" with respect to some group). Compactifying or dimensionally reducing (these are different things) to lower spacetime dimensions leads to different types of gauge groups, and there are many ways of carrying these things out, including ways giving near-standard model physics.
One can also obtain 'natural' gaugings of supergravity (which can be use more directly for phenomenological purposes), which is the low energy limit of string theory. Then you can try to determine the origin of these gaugings from an underlying string theory.
 

1. What is extradimension as symmetry?

Extradimension as symmetry is a theory in physics that proposes the existence of extra dimensions beyond the three dimensions of length, width, and height that we are familiar with. This theory suggests that these extra dimensions are hidden from our perception, but play a crucial role in maintaining the symmetry of our universe.

2. How does extradimension as symmetry affect our understanding of the universe?

The theory of extradimension as symmetry challenges our traditional understanding of the universe and suggests that there may be more to the physical world than what we can directly observe. It offers a potential explanation for certain phenomena that cannot be explained by traditional theories, such as gravity and dark matter.

3. Can extradimension as symmetry be tested or proven?

While the concept of extradimension as symmetry is still a theoretical idea, there are ongoing efforts to test and prove its existence. One way to do this is through experiments involving high-energy particle collisions, which may provide evidence of these extra dimensions.

4. What implications does extradimension as symmetry have for other areas of science?

If proven to be true, extradimension as symmetry could have far-reaching implications for various fields of science, such as cosmology, astrophysics, and particle physics. It may also lead to groundbreaking advancements in technology, as our understanding of the universe expands.

5. Is extradimension as symmetry widely accepted by the scientific community?

The theory of extradimension as symmetry is still a subject of debate and research in the scientific community. While some scientists are supportive and see it as a potential solution to unanswered questions in physics, others remain skeptical and argue that there is currently not enough evidence to support it.

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