Exploring Dimensions: Understanding Extra Dimensions in Physics
Summary
In this article, we explore the concept of dimensions in physics and mathematics. Sean Carrol, a theoretical physicist at the California Institute of Technology, explains the idea of dimensions and how physicists talk about extra dimensions. We discuss the possibility of extra dimensions that are smaller than atoms and how they relate to measuring objects. We also touch upon Einstein’s idea of time as a fourth dimension and the concept of space-time.
Table of Contents
- One, Two, Three: Understanding Dimensions
- The Possibility of Extra Dimensions
- Coordinating Space: Latitude, Longitude, and Celestial Coordinates
- Theoretical vs. Experimental Physics
- Space-Time: The Four-Dimensional Generalization of Three-Dimensional Space
One, Two, Three: Understanding Dimensions
To a physicist or mathematician, a dimension is just a direction in which one can move. We think of our world as having three dimensions, but physicists talk about extra dimensions, which can be hidden or undiscovered. Sean uses the example of a line to explain one dimension, where every point has its own unique number to locate it. Similarly, in two dimensions, we need two numbers to locate a point on a plane.
The Possibility of Extra Dimensions
Physicists continue to explore the possibility of having more than three dimensions. The conversation is about the possibility of extra dimensions that are smaller than atoms. The speaker asks the listener about their understanding of dimensions and explains the concept of one, two, and three-dimensional space. They also discuss different coordinate systems, such as polar coordinates, and the potential for extra dimensions in space.
Coordinating Space: Latitude, Longitude, and Celestial Coordinates
The conversation discusses the concept of dimensions and how they relate to measuring objects. The earth’s latitude and longitude are used as an example of defining an object’s location, but because the earth is rotating, separate celestial coordinates must be defined.
Theoretical vs. Experimental Physics
Physicists are uncertain about the number of dimensions that exist, with some believing in the possibility of extra dimensions and others considering it nonsensical. The interviewee studies math and physics and is interested in both theoretical and experimental physics. They explain that dimensions refer to the coordinates used to measure an object, with a line being one-dimensional and a square being two-dimensional.
Space-Time: The Four-Dimensional Generalization of Three-Dimensional Space
The concept of space-time is introduced as a four-dimensional generalization of three-dimensional space, with Einstein’s theory of relativity highlighting the importance of considering space and time as one entity. Einstein’s idea of time as a fourth dimension is mentioned, as well as the use of coordinates in astronomy to locate stars in the sky.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the concept of dimensions is a fundamental idea in physics and mathematics. While we tend to think of our world as having three dimensions, physicists continue to explore the possibility of extra dimensions. The concept of space-time as a four-dimensional generalization of three-dimensional space is also an important idea in modern physics.
