Physics Frontiers Episode 81: Pixelated Space Time with Philip Tee
Feb 9, 2025
Join Philip Tee, Executive VP of AI Innovation at Zscaler and academic at Arizona State University, as he dives into the fascinating world of pixelated space-time. He discusses how the fundamental length scale affects the bending of light and the Casimir effect. The conversation explores the intricate connections between quantum gravity and particle physics, revealing theoretical frameworks like string theory. From the mechanics of geckos climbing walls to modified light behavior, Philip sheds light on the intricate fabric of the universe.
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The Quest for Quantum Gravity
- The main challenge in physics is reconciling quantum mechanics and gravity to find a quantum theory of gravity.
- The Planck length suggests a fundamental discrete scale of space that might avoid infinities in calculations.
Renormalization Fails for Gravity
- Attempts to renormalize quantum gravity fail due to endlessly arising infinities.
- This major hurdle means no fully consistent quantum gravity theory currently exists, despite strong belief it should.
Discrete vs Continuous Spacetime Models
- Some quantum gravity theories assume continuous geometry, like string theory, while others posit discrete spacetime.
- Pixelated spacetime theories model space as discrete points linked in networks, but struggle to produce testable predictions.