Could space-time be a property of matter in string theory?

In summary, the question of whether time and space are just properties of matter is a complex and ongoing debate in the world of physics. In classical and quantum field theories, space-time is simply assumed to exist, but in string theory, it is a derived concept and the theory is only consistent in a specific number of dimensions. Additionally, there is the possibility that different theories could have different concepts of space-time, leading to the concept of duality.
  • #1
nuby
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Could time and space just be properties of matter?
 
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  • #2
Wouldn't this correspond (roughly) to the Heisenberg picture of QM: fixed states with evolving positions and momenta?
 
  • #3
nuby said:
Could time and space just be properties of matter?
Usually, in the classical theory as well as quantum field theory, the concept of space-time is put in the theory "by hand."
For example, in a field theory, a particle can live in arbitrary space-time dimension. One can generalized our theory to any dimension he wants.

However, in string theory, the concept of space-time is somewhat different. It's a derived concept. For example, in the bosonic string case, the theory is only self-consistent in 26 space-time dimension.

Moreover, the concept of space-time can be different in a different theory. Actually I don't really understand this. But I heard from a talk that the concept of space-time could be different, so that two theories with different space-time dimensions could be "dual" to each other.
 

FAQ: Could space-time be a property of matter in string theory?

What is time and space?

Time and space are fundamental concepts in physics that describe the physical universe. Time is a measure of the duration of events, while space refers to the three-dimensional extent in which these events occur.

Is time and space the same thing?

No, time and space are not the same thing. They are often considered together because they are interconnected, but they are distinct concepts. Time is the measure of change and motion, while space is the medium in which these changes occur.

Can time and space be manipulated?

In classical physics, time and space are considered absolute and unchangeable. However, in modern physics, Einstein's theory of relativity has shown that time and space can be distorted by gravity and motion, and that they are not as absolute as once thought.

How do time and space affect each other?

According to Einstein's theory of relativity, time and space are interconnected and can affect each other in a phenomenon known as spacetime. This means that the rate at which time passes can be influenced by the curvature of space, such as near massive objects like black holes.

Can time and space exist without the other?

In classical physics, time and space are considered separate entities and can exist independently. However, in modern physics, they are seen as interconnected and inseparable, as demonstrated by the concept of spacetime. It is not possible to have one without the other in this context.

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