Can molecules exist in other dimensions?

In summary, molecules can only exist in a three dimensional environment according to Mr. Smith's teachings in high school physics. However, string theory suggests that in higher dimensions, such as 4+1 dimensional space-time, molecules may exist due to the gravitational force, though this is still a speculative concept with no empirical evidence. Additionally, in 4-dimentional space, even atoms may not exist due to the differences in forces compared to 3-d space.
  • #1
ronandkryn
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I took physics in high school many-many-many moons ago. Mr. Smith taught that molecules can only exist inside a three dimensional environment. Is that true?
 
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  • #2
ronandkryn said:
I took physics in high school many-many-many moons ago. Mr. Smith taught that molecules can only exist inside a three dimensional environment. Is that true?
It depends on what you mean by "exist". In most string theories that assume several more dimensions, electromagnetic interactions, as well as the strong and weak nuclear forces, are constrained to three spatial dimensions and one time dimension. But the gravitational force may not be. Which would mean that the molecule would "exist" in the other dimensions by virtue of its gravity.

Of course string theory is entirely speculative, with no empirical backing at all, but it is taken seriously by many physicists.
 
  • #3
Yes. In fact, in 4-dimentional space (4+1 dimensional space-time), even atoms cannot excist, because forces in 4-d space are governed by a 1/r3 law instead of the 1/r2 law you have in 3-d space. The electromagnetic force on the atomic scale becomes so large that the electrons are pulled into the nucleus or sent flying out of orbit.
 

FAQ: Can molecules exist in other dimensions?

Can molecules exist in dimensions other than three?

Yes, according to some theories in physics, molecules can exist in dimensions other than the three we are familiar with. These theories propose the existence of additional dimensions beyond the three spatial dimensions we experience in our everyday lives.

How do molecules behave in other dimensions?

The behavior of molecules in other dimensions is not well understood, as we do not have direct evidence of their existence. However, some theories suggest that the properties and interactions of molecules in higher dimensions may differ from those in our three-dimensional world.

Can we observe molecules in other dimensions?

At present, we do not have the technology to observe molecules in other dimensions. However, scientists are conducting research and experiments to try to detect and study these higher-dimensional molecules.

How would the existence of molecules in other dimensions affect our understanding of the world?

If the existence of molecules in other dimensions is confirmed, it would greatly impact our understanding of the fundamental nature of the universe. It could potentially explain certain phenomena that are currently not fully understood and lead to new discoveries in physics.

Is there any evidence for the existence of molecules in other dimensions?

Currently, there is no direct evidence for the existence of molecules in other dimensions. However, some theories and experiments in particle physics and string theory suggest the possibility of their existence. Further research and advancements in technology may provide more evidence in the future.

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