Space is discrete or continuous?

In summary, there is a debate in physics about whether space is discrete or continuous. Some evidence supports the idea of discrete space, including quantum mechanics and the structure of the universe. This concept is also related to the idea of a smallest unit of measurement, known as the Planck length. However, there are arguments for the idea of continuous space, which would have significant implications for our understanding of the universe.
  • #1
Philipsmett
78
4
According to QFT or Quantum Gravitation Theory space and time are discrete or continuous?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Philipsmett said:
According to QFT or Quantum Gravitation Theory space and time are discrete or continuous?
This has been discussed here ad nauseum. I suggest a forum search.
 
  • #3
Philipsmett said:
According to QFT or Quantum Gravitation Theory

Which one? They're not the same.

According to QFT spacetime is a continuous manifold, just like in classical GR, since QFT requires a classical spacetime manifold in order to be formulated.

We don't currently have an accepted "Quantum Gravitation Theory" so there is no way to answer your question for that case.
 
  • Like
Likes bhobba

Related to Space is discrete or continuous?

1. Is space made up of individual, discrete units or is it continuous?

This is a fundamental question in the field of physics and cosmology. While some scientists believe that space is made up of individual units, others argue that it is continuous and has no distinct boundaries.

2. What evidence supports the idea of discrete space?

One of the main pieces of evidence for discrete space is the quantization of energy levels in atoms, which suggests that space is not continuous but rather made up of individual units. Additionally, some theories, such as loop quantum gravity, propose that space is made up of discrete units called "quantum foam."

3. How does the concept of discrete space relate to the concept of time?

The concept of discrete space is closely tied to the concept of discrete time. Just as space may be made up of individual units, time may also be made up of discrete moments. This idea is explored in theories such as loop quantum gravity and causal dynamical triangulation.

4. What are the implications of a discrete space for our understanding of the universe?

If space is indeed discrete, it would have significant implications for our understanding of the universe. It could impact our understanding of gravity, the behavior of particles, and the structure of the universe itself. It could also potentially reconcile the theories of general relativity and quantum mechanics.

5. How can we test the idea of discrete space?

Currently, there is no definitive way to test the idea of discrete space. However, some scientists are working on experiments that could potentially provide evidence for discrete space, such as measuring the smallest possible unit of space or observing the effects of quantum foam. Other scientists are using computer simulations and mathematical models to explore the implications of discrete space on the behavior of particles and the structure of the universe.

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
798
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
19
Views
1K
Replies
12
Views
774
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
2
Views
796
Replies
17
Views
863
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
11
Views
2K
Replies
12
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
1K
Back
Top