String Propogation Modality
Name: Jasper de R.
Electromagnetic waves have alternating electric and
magnetic fields that "propel" the wave. What propels strings in the
superstring theory? Strings themselves define energy so how can there be
a smaller force to vibrate those strings?
One important thing to realize is what a "string" is. It is a representation of a particular object as a function of time. Imagine a ball
just moving up and down. Graph the ball's height as a function of time. The line of this graph can be called a string. Add another component to qualify as momentum. Now you can graph position and momentum as a function of time. You are much closer to a superstring. Always you get a line extending in the direction of the time axis, oscillating side to side as momentum and position change. The oscillations of the string are not actually vibrations like a vibrating cord. The oscillations are a record of the life of the object. It is the object that must feel forces. String theory provides a way to discuss the effects and limitations of these forces
on the object.
Dr. Ken Mellendorf
Illinois Central College
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Update: June 2012