Fundamental parameter probabilities

In summary, although it is impossible to know for certain, it is most likely that any given big bang will result in the formation of life. However, there is a very small chance that no such event will happen at all.
  • #1
Pjpic
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What are the odds that any particular big bang will result in the 20(?) fundamental parameters having the values that will allow life to form?
 
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  • #2
Pjpic said:
What are the odds that any particular big bang will result in the 20(?) fundamental parameters having the values that will allow life to form?
Given as we don't yet have a theory of everything, we can't yet say what the relationships between the various parameters are (in full). Furthermore, we don't yet know how many such "big bang" events happened. So even if the probability for any single big bang event forming life is, for example, 10^-200, if there are in excess of 10^400 big bang events, then it's no problem.

Finally, it is worth mentioning the simple fact that we wouldn't exist if life weren't possible. A simple tautology, but worth pointing out, because it demonstrates that we can't infer anything at all about the habitability of the universe: no intelligent being can possibly observe a universe that isn't habitable.
 
  • #3
So even if the probability for any single big bang event forming life is, for example, 10^-200,



Is 10^-200 ballpark given what we know?
 
  • #4
Pjpic said:
So even if the probability for any single big bang event forming life is, for example, 10^-200,
Is 10^-200 ballpark given what we know?
No. It's just a random number I threw out there. There is no way to say at the current time, because we don't yet know what the probability distribution of possible outcomes of big bang-like events is.
 
  • #5
The odds are likely to be very close to either 1 or infinity. Either only one universe was the most probable outcome - and we can see that it is our own and supports life. Or there must have been a near infinity of goes at producing universes, and we just happen to be in the lucky outlier.

The two perspectives can be combined of course. As in evolving multiverse scenarios where from infinite variety there is a gradual evolution by replication towards maximally complex universes.

So Bayesian approaches would rule out much of the middle ground of probability and favour the opposing extremes I suggest.
 

FAQ: Fundamental parameter probabilities

1. What are fundamental parameter probabilities?

Fundamental parameter probabilities refer to the likelihood or chance of a particular fundamental physical parameter or constant having a specific value. These parameters include constants such as the speed of light, Planck's constant, and the gravitational constant, which govern the behavior of the universe.

2. How are fundamental parameter probabilities determined?

Fundamental parameter probabilities are determined through experiments and observations in the field of physics. Scientists use mathematical models, theories, and data from experiments to calculate the likelihood of different values for these fundamental parameters.

3. Why are fundamental parameter probabilities important?

Fundamental parameter probabilities are essential because they help us understand the fundamental laws of nature and how the universe operates. They also allow us to make predictions about the behavior of physical systems and help us develop new technologies and advancements in science.

4. Are fundamental parameter probabilities constant?

No, fundamental parameter probabilities are not constant. They can vary depending on the context and conditions in which they are measured. For example, the speed of light may have a different probability value in a vacuum compared to a medium such as water.

5. How do fundamental parameter probabilities impact our everyday lives?

Although we may not think about it, fundamental parameter probabilities have a significant impact on our daily lives. They govern the behavior of matter and energy, which influences everything from the functioning of electronic devices to the laws of thermodynamics that govern our daily activities.

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