Speed of light and modern physics

In summary, if something traveling faster than light is found, it would have a significant impact on modern physics. It would conflict with mathematical logic and the principles of relativity and quantum physics. While there would be initial excitement and research, it would also be met with skepticism until further evidence is found. Eventually, a new theory would need to be developed to supersede relativity.
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commander_24
What will happen if something traveling faster than light is found?What effect will it have on modern physics?
 
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  • #2
If you mean in another matter medium , the object will radiate a cherenkov radiation, if in vacuum Its not possible and not even possible, and It'll never happen, you must have an infinity energy to do that , and since infinity is undefine ( there is no specific last number), you can't ever and never ,even in your physical dreams travel faster than light, then you'll conflict the mathematical logic, and hence the all of mathematics, and hence the all of physics, even quantum physics!
 
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  • #3
commander_24 said:
What effect will it have on modern physics?
You can get a pretty good idea about the early stages from studying the community’s reaction to the OPERA experiment’s report of FTL neutrinos. There would be a large number of initial papers on the possible cause quite soon after the discovery. Generally it would also be met with a significant amount of healthy scepticism. If, unlike the FTL neutrinos, the result would hold up to scrutiny, we would eventually need to start taking it seriously and work on finding a theory that can supersede relativity.

Moayd Shagaf said:
It'll never happen, you must have an infinity energy to do that
Accordingto SR, but this is not what the OP was asking. The OP asked about the possible reprecussions.
 
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Related to Speed of light and modern physics

1. What is the speed of light?

The speed of light is a fundamental constant in physics and is denoted by the letter c. It is approximately 299,792,458 meters per second in a vacuum.

2. Why is the speed of light considered to be the fastest possible speed?

According to Einstein's theory of relativity, the speed of light is the maximum speed at which all matter and information in the universe can travel. This is due to the properties of space and time, and the relationship between them.

3. How does the speed of light affect our perception of time and space?

The theory of relativity states that as an object's speed approaches the speed of light, time and space are distorted. This means that time will appear to slow down and distances will appear to contract for an observer in motion relative to another observer.

4. Can anything travel faster than the speed of light?

According to our current understanding of physics, no. The theory of relativity states that the speed of light is the maximum speed at which anything can travel. However, there are some theories that propose the existence of particles called tachyons that may travel faster than light, but this has not been proven.

5. How does the speed of light impact modern technology?

The speed of light plays a crucial role in modern technology, particularly in the field of telecommunications. It allows for high-speed communication through fiber optic cables and is also used in technologies such as lasers, GPS, and satellite communication. Additionally, the concept of light speed is essential in the development of theories and technologies related to space travel and exploration.

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