Unifying the Fundamental Forces

In summary, the strength of the fundamental forces changes with energy levels. As energy increases, the strength of the strong force decreases while the weak and electromagnetic forces become stronger. This unification of forces only works with the presence of Supersymmetry (SUSY).
  • #1
Drakkith
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I've read that at certain energy levels the fundamental forces are united or are equal strength. How does the energy level affect the strength of the forces?
 
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  • #2
Drakkith said:
I've read that at certain energy levels the fundamental forces are united or are equal strength. How does the energy level affect the strength of the forces?

The coupling strenght of the force mediateros (gauge bosons) change with energy. Trying to understand that with the electron charge as example;

The electron charge causes a field around the electron. In this field, dipoles of particle/anti-particle pairs are created and align themselves with the field, which causes a screening of the charge. The more we raise the energy, the shorter distances can we examine, the closer we get to the electron and the larger is the effective charge we measure.

At higher energy, the strong force gets weaker while the weak and electromagnetic force gets stronger.
 
  • #3
Drakkith said:
I've read that at certain energy levels the fundamental forces are united or are equal strength. How does the energy level affect the strength of the forces?

It's probably worth noting that this unification only really works if there's SUSY.
 
  • #4
Parlyne said:
It's probably worth noting that this unification only really works if there's SUSY.

What is SUSY?
 
  • #5
Supersymmetry.
 
  • #6
Kevin_Axion said:
Supersymmetry.

Ah ok.
 

FAQ: Unifying the Fundamental Forces

How many fundamental forces are there?

Currently, there are four known fundamental forces in the universe: gravity, electromagnetism, strong nuclear force, and weak nuclear force.

What is the goal of unifying the fundamental forces?

The goal of unifying the fundamental forces is to find a single theory that can explain all four forces and their interactions, known as a theory of everything.

How close are we to unifying the fundamental forces?

Scientists have made significant progress in understanding the fundamental forces and have proposed different theories such as string theory and grand unified theory. However, a complete and successful unification of the forces has not yet been achieved.

What are the challenges in unifying the fundamental forces?

One of the main challenges in unifying the fundamental forces is that they operate on different scales and have vastly different strengths. Additionally, merging gravity, which operates on a large scale, with the other forces, which operate on a much smaller scale, has proven to be difficult.

Why is unifying the fundamental forces important?

Unifying the fundamental forces would provide a complete understanding of the laws that govern the universe, allowing us to better understand the origins and workings of the universe. It could also potentially lead to new technologies and advancements in science and technology.

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