Symmetry Breaking: Unveiling the Mysteries of the Universe

In summary, the conversation discusses questions about symmetry, including the potential violation of physical laws, the role of symmetry breaking in the universe, and the idea that the present laws of the universe were predetermined. The concept of dice playing God is also briefly mentioned.
  • #1
drag
Science Advisor
1,105
1
Symmetry "breaking"

Greetings !

I'd like to ask and possibly discuss questions
about symmetry :
1. I heard that there is a 2% lacking symmetry in
weak nuclear force reactions. Does this
mean energy-conservation (and other physical laws)
are violated ?!
2. Does the HUP possibly represent the
general principle of sponteneous symmetry
"breaking" in the Universe ?
3. I've heard many scientists in the past
say things that eventually mean the following :
"The Universe had no choice but have the present
laws." However, wouldn't sponteneous symmetry
"breaking", if it takes place, violate that hypothesys ?

"Does dice play God ?"

Live long and prosper.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
No, the symmetry breaking is the tool that says that the actual models which describe the states (e.g. the eightfold way) are good approximations, but that some quantities are not preserved. Thus the model does not exactly correspond to the symmetry of the system, since some restrictions to some substructure are not conserved. This is not very surprising, since the models are chosen to be manipulable. The symmetry breaking is then analyzed by the use of the branching rules, which allows you to see what actually happens. The fact that a lagrangian is not invariant by some subgroup is not telling you that convervation laws are violated.
 
  • #3
1) No... they were probably talking about CP-violation, which is a different symmetry altogether.
2) I don't think so, but I'm not sure what the question means exactly.
3) Not really... the fundamental laws wouldn't be affected by the symmetry breaking, but things like the proportions of various particles existent would be. You should note that that statement is more like a religious belief, a faith that things aren't random, than a scientific position.
 

What is symmetry breaking?

Symmetry breaking is a concept in physics where a system that is initially symmetrical or uniform, breaks into an asymmetrical state. This phenomenon can be observed in various systems, from subatomic particles to the universe as a whole.

How does symmetry breaking explain the mysteries of the universe?

Symmetry breaking is a fundamental aspect of the universe that helps explain how the universe evolved from a state of uniformity to the complex and diverse state we see today. It is also responsible for the formation of structures such as galaxies, stars, and planets.

What causes symmetry breaking?

Symmetry breaking can be caused by a variety of factors, such as external forces acting on a system, interactions between particles, or changes in temperature or energy levels. In some cases, it can also be a result of spontaneous processes within a system.

How is symmetry breaking studied?

Symmetry breaking is studied through various branches of physics, including particle physics, cosmology, and condensed matter physics. Scientists use experimental and theoretical methods to understand the principles and mechanisms behind symmetry breaking.

What are the potential applications of symmetry breaking?

The study of symmetry breaking has led to advancements in our understanding of the fundamental laws of nature and has practical applications in fields such as materials science, engineering, and technology. It also has implications for the development of new technologies and potential solutions to complex problems in physics.

Similar threads

Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Beyond the Standard Models
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
13
Views
5K
Replies
17
Views
2K
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
8
Views
826
Replies
69
Views
10K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
1
Views
2K
Back
Top