What is time in string/M-theory and Four-dimensionalism?

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Objects in string theory do not have temporal parts in the traditional sense, as time is considered to be an emergent property of the interactions between strings. Therefore, the debate of Three vs Four-dimensionalism does not directly apply to string theory.
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kodama
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concept of time
what is time according to string/M-theory

do objects in string theory also have temporal parts?

and how does the debate of Three vs Four-dimensionalism apply to string theory which posits 10/11 dimensions?
 
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What we experience as three spatial dimensions plus time, is the four dimensional spacetime of GR.
kodama said:
what is time according to string/M-theory
do objects in string theory also have temporal parts?
In string theory, spacetime is ten-dimensional (nine spatial dimensions, and one time dimension). In M-theory, spacetime is eleven-dimensional (ten spatial dimensions, and one time dimension).

kodama said:
... and how does the debate of Three vs Four-dimensionalism apply to string theory which posits 10/11 dimensions?
The extra 6/7 dimensions are hypothesised for mathematical consistency, and are not observed in experiments.
 

FAQ: What is time in string/M-theory and Four-dimensionalism?

What is time in string theory?

In string theory, time is considered one of the dimensions in the higher-dimensional space-time framework. String theory typically requires 10 or 11 dimensions, where time is treated similarly to space dimensions but with distinct properties. Time in string theory is a continuous parameter that allows for the evolution of strings and branes, which are the fundamental objects in the theory.

How does M-theory conceptualize time?

M-theory, which is an extension and unification of the various string theories, also includes time as a crucial dimension. In M-theory, which is formulated in 11 dimensions, time is one of these dimensions and plays a role in the dynamics of 2-dimensional membranes (or "branes") and higher-dimensional objects. The theory aims to provide a more complete understanding of how time and space are interwoven at a fundamental level.

What is Four-dimensionalism in the context of time?

Four-dimensionalism is a philosophical view about the nature of time and objects. It posits that objects are extended in time just as they are in space, meaning they have temporal parts in addition to spatial parts. According to this view, past, present, and future events are equally real, and the passage of time is an illusion. This contrasts with presentism, which holds that only present events are real.

How does string/M-theory relate to Four-dimensionalism?

String and M-theory generally operate within the framework of a block universe, which aligns with Four-dimensionalism. In this view, the universe is a four-dimensional block where time is just another dimension, similar to the three spatial dimensions. This theoretical approach supports the idea that all points in time are equally real, consistent with the Four-dimensionalist perspective.

Can string/M-theory explain the passage of time?

String/M-theory provides a mathematical framework for understanding the structure of space-time, including time as a dimension. However, it does not inherently explain the subjective experience of the passage of time. The passage of time is often considered an emergent phenomenon that arises from the laws of thermodynamics and the increase of entropy, rather than something directly explained by string or M-theory.

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