Chapter 1
The puzzle of gravity
Chapter 2
The quantum clash
Chapter 3
Vibrating strings and extra dimensions
Chapter 4
The ultimate cosmic detective work
YOUR GOAL
Master of Searching for the graviton
Ch 3 · Vibrating strings and extra dimensions
hue Gravitons and Extra Dimensions
We're stuck on a membrane of simple 3D, But gravitons drift where we can't ever see.
hue Some physicists believe gravity feels weak because gravitons can leak out into other dimensions.
hue To make string theory work mathematically, our universe must have extra, hidden dimensions of space.
Fun Fact
Hidden dimensions: String theory suggests there could be up to 7 extra hidden dimensions of space curled up smaller than an atom.
Glossary
string theory (noun)
A mathematical theory in which fundamental particles are represented as tiny, one-dimensional strings. In 1969, Leonard Susskind proposed this framework, modeling gravitons as closed loops vibrating in ten dimensions.
A mathematical theory in which fundamental particles are represented as tiny, one-dimensional strings. In 1969, Leonard Susskind proposed this framework, modeling gravitons as closed loops vibrating in ten dimensions.
Quiz
Which rival theory of gravity avoids extra dimensions by suggesting space is woven from loops?