Experiment to Determine if Spacetime is Granular

In summary: It is still not clear what is the basic unit of the universe. According to Einstein's theory of special relativity, space-time should be continuous, but if it is granular, there should be a fundamental unit that cannot be broken down any further. This experiment is part of the ongoing research to understand this fundamental concept of space-time.
  • #1
wolram
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May be this experiment will be able tell us soon
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/04/160422115329.htm

One of the problems to be solved in this respect is that if space-time is granular beyond a certain scale it means that there is a "basic scale," a fundamental unit that cannot be broken down into anything smaller, a hypothesis that clashes with Einstein's theory of special relativity.
 
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  • #2
How long do think it'll take before they actually carry out the experiment?
 
  • #3
Causal Set Theory alert...

CST is so left field but its really interesting. Have you guys looked into it at all? Incidentally looks like Stephen Wolfram is playing with something quite similar (though I don't really know how good a physicist he is).

http://blog.stephenwolfram.com/2015/12/what-is-spacetime-really/
 
  • #4
Causal set theory is an extension of set theory as originally formulated by Gregor Cantor. Alan Connes is largely credited with its modern incarnation. It remains a very interesting approach to quantum gravity.
 
  • #5
wolram said:
May be this experiment will be able tell us soon
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/04/160422115329.htm

One of the problems to be solved in this respect is that if space-time is granular beyond a certain scale it means that there is a "basic scale," a fundamental unit that cannot be broken down into anything smaller, a hypothesis that clashes with Einstein's theory of special relativity.

This experiment will not give any kind of answer, it is intended to deduct more information.

This "problem to be solved" is the biggest problem in physics.
 

Related to Experiment to Determine if Spacetime is Granular

1. What is the purpose of the experiment?

The purpose of the experiment is to determine if spacetime, the fabric of the universe, is granular or continuous. This means investigating whether spacetime is made up of discrete units or if it is a smooth and continuous structure.

2. How will the experiment be conducted?

The experiment will involve analyzing data obtained from observations of cosmic rays and their interactions with the fabric of spacetime. This data will be collected using highly sensitive instruments and advanced technology.

3. What are the potential implications of the experiment's results?

If the experiment confirms that spacetime is granular, this could have major implications for our understanding of the fundamental laws of physics and the nature of the universe. It could also lead to new theories and advancements in technology.

4. How will the accuracy of the experiment be ensured?

The experiment will be conducted multiple times to ensure reliability and accuracy of results. Additionally, the data will be analyzed and verified by multiple teams of scientists to eliminate any potential errors or biases.

5. What is the timeline for the experiment and when can we expect results?

The timeline for the experiment will depend on various factors such as funding, technology, and data analysis. It is a complex and ongoing process, so it is difficult to estimate a specific timeline. However, scientists hope to have some preliminary results within the next few years.

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