Unified field theory impossible?

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of a "theory of everything" for the universe and the challenges in achieving it due to the limitations of quantum mechanics. It is believed that a unified field theory would need to encompass a system of equations that go beyond current physics and explain not only existing forces but also the non-existence of imagined forces. String theory, while flexible, may not be the solution to this quest for a unified theory.
  • #1
mazz
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My question is, is it still widely believed that an all encompassing "theory of everything" exists for the universe? It seems to me that due to quantum mechanics it would be impossible to actually observe enough data to predict precisely the behavior of quarks and other subatomic particles, one could only approach such an equation. Is it really possible?
 
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  • #2
The question about a "theory of everything" is if we can ever find the right equations. No one believes that we could ever observe enough data to actually predict everything! And in fact a theory that predicts that there are things that we can't predict would still be a valid theory of everything, as long as it was correct about the unpredictability!
 
  • #3
Unified field theories will not be attained by simply merging present theories.

More likely, a unified field theory would have to encompass a system of equations for which present physics equations are mere approximations bearing only a spot of resemblance.

Also important for a unified field theory is that it should not be capable of predicting the existence (or even merely allowing the theoretical existence) of a physical force for an object which is not physically possible. In other words, not only must a unified field theory explain what forces do exist, it must also explain why other imagined forces do not exist. For this reason, string theory, which doesn't really forbid any particular reality, as it is too "flexible", is not going to be this unified field theory people have longed for.
 

FAQ: Unified field theory impossible?

Is it true that a unified field theory is impossible to achieve?

There is currently no evidence to suggest that a unified field theory is impossible. While it is a challenging goal, many scientists continue to work towards developing a theory that can unify all fundamental forces.

Why is it so difficult to create a unified field theory?

The main challenge in creating a unified field theory is that it requires combining two very successful but fundamentally different theories: general relativity and quantum mechanics. These two theories have been independently tested and verified, but they have yet to be reconciled into a single, cohesive framework.

Have any progress been made towards a unified field theory?

There have been many attempts to develop a unified field theory, but none have been fully successful. Some promising theories, such as string theory and loop quantum gravity, have emerged, but they still have some challenges to overcome before being considered a complete unified theory.

Why is a unified field theory considered the "holy grail" of physics?

A unified field theory is often referred to as the "holy grail" of physics because it has the potential to explain all physical phenomena in the universe. It would provide a single, elegant framework to describe the workings of the universe and could potentially lead to new technologies and advancements.

What are the implications if a unified field theory is proven impossible?

If a unified field theory is ultimately proven impossible, it would mean that our current understanding of the universe is incomplete. It would also mean that there are fundamental aspects of the universe that we have yet to discover and understand. However, it is important to remember that the search for a unified field theory has led to many important discoveries and advancements in physics, so the pursuit of this goal is still valuable.

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