Modular Physics: Largest Number in the Universe

In summary, the documentary discussed some people's beliefs that there may be a maximum number that the universe can go to, and that it can then "go back round" to 0. However, this is only a theory and is not popular among physicists.
  • #1
SubZir0
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Hi all, I was watching a documentary (http://topdocumentaryfilms.com/to-infinity-and-beyond/) and a few of the people said they didn't believe in infinity. I'm fine with that but one said some physicists believe there is a maximum number then it goes back round to 0. Is this actually a theory? If so is it popular?
 
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  • #2
It is important to distinguish between mathematics and physics. Infinity is a mathematical concept (which is perfectly valid).

When talking about the universe (physics) there may be a different story. For example, most theories of the universe have the universe as bounded. This means, if you were able to travel in the same direction long enough, you could end up back where you started.
 
  • #3
Aren't we at a point where we're pretty sure that the universe is flat (ie. unbounded), rather than closed (bounded)? While it's true that things like String Theory predict small, bounded dimensions, it's very unlikely that the big 4 (space and time) are modular.

In terms of mathematics, then as mathman says, numbers go forever unless you specify them.
 
  • #4
We know that the universe is very close to flat or exactly flat. It could still be curved. Ever more accurate measurements keep bringing us closer.
 
  • #5
Aren't we at a point where we're pretty sure that the universe is flat (ie. unbounded), rather than closed (bounded)? While it's true that things like String Theory predict small, bounded dimensions, it's very unlikely that the big 4 (space and time) are modular.

nope...on all counts...quit the opposite in fact...you can find lots of discussions in these
forums on the nature of dimensions...spacetime,,,,,there are even perr reviewed papers that suggest there is no different between discrete and continuous time...they are two sides of the same coin...just like apprpriate digital sampling can completely reproduce an analog information signal...like a TV program for example...


also see here regarding the shape of the universe...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Open_universe#Open_or_closed

and the surrounding sections like: "In a flat universe, all of the local curvature and local geometry is flat. It is generally assumed that it is described by a Euclidean space, although there are some spatial geometries that are flat and bounded in one or more directions (like the surface of a cylinder, for example)..."
 
  • #6
Drakkith said:
We know that the universe is very close to flat or exactly flat. It could still be curved. Ever more accurate measurements keep bringing us closer.

How so? After the Big Bang the whole Universe should have been expanding to all directions at the same rate so it would have a spherical shape.
 
  • #7
Gytax said:
How so? After the Big Bang the whole Universe should have been expanding to all directions at the same rate so it would have a spherical shape.

That is not what is meant by "flat" and "curved". See here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shape_of_the_universe
 
  • #8
Ok, I see the distinction. Thanks, the shape stuff is interesting, kinda like in Conway's Game of Life when you choose between border rules/no borders(modular)/infinite.

__________________________________________________________
"Science is the belief in the ignorance of experts." - Richard Feynman.
http://neuraloutlet.wordpress.com/
 
  • #9
Let's not derail this thread into what it isn't. If you wish to discuss the "shape" of the universe, please do so in the Astrophysics/Cosmology forum.

Zz.
 

FAQ: Modular Physics: Largest Number in the Universe

What is "Modular Physics: Largest Number in the Universe"?

"Modular Physics: Largest Number in the Universe" is a theoretical concept in physics that explores the idea of the largest possible number in our known universe. It is based on the concept of modular arithmetic, where numbers wrap around after reaching a certain value.

Why is it important to study this concept?

Studying the concept of the largest number in the universe can help us gain a better understanding of the limits of our universe and the fundamental laws of mathematics. It also has implications for fields such as cosmology and theoretical physics.

How is modular arithmetic related to this concept?

Modular arithmetic is a mathematical system where numbers are divided into groups, or "modules", and wrap around after reaching a certain value. This is similar to how the concept of the largest number in the universe works, as it is based on the idea that there is a maximum value that a number can reach before it wraps around.

Is there a definitive answer to what the largest number in the universe is?

No, there is no definitive answer to what the largest number in the universe is. It is a theoretical concept and the exact value is unknown. However, it is believed that it is a number that is so large that it is beyond our current understanding and comprehension.

How does this concept relate to the concept of infinity?

The concept of the largest number in the universe is often associated with the concept of infinity, as both deal with the idea of limitless quantities. However, they are not the same. Infinity is a concept without a specific value, while the largest number in the universe is a theoretical limit that can potentially be reached within our known universe.

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