Physics (Internal)

Can there be a discrete theory of gravity?

This event is part of the HET Seminar Series.

Elementary particles are surrounded by gravitational fields that vary continuously from point to point, and for that reason it is difficult to use them as elementary constituents in a discretized theory. If matter is assumed to consist of straight sections of strings this problem does not arise. At first sight, the spectrum of strings, straight or otherwise, would still allow for a continuum of orientations and velocities, but this can perhaps be cured. An interesting discrete theory of gravity emerges that sheds an unusual light on the quantum nature of our world.

This talk is about work still in progress.