Scientists Are Mapping the Boundaries of What Is Knowable and Unknowable
This article delves into the evolving understanding of predictability in physics, exploring how limitations to what can be known or predicted have emerged over time. Starting with Laplace’s assertion of a completely knowable universe, the discussion traces the developments in quantum mechanics, chaos theory, and the concept of undecidability, which illustrate fundamental limits inherent in physical systems.
Key Points
- Historically, Laplace suggested that with complete knowledge, one could predict any future events.
- Quantum mechanics introduced uncertainty, as particles exist in a realm of probabilities rather than certainties.
- Chaotic systems amplify uncertainties, making long-term predictions even more complex.
- Undecidability emerges as a third limitation in physics, suggesting certain questions about systems cannot be answered, even with perfect knowledge.
- Research has connected undecidability with both quantum materials and fluid dynamics, showcasing limits on predictability across different domains.
Why should I read this?
This article is essential for anyone interested in the philosophical and practical implications of what can—and cannot—be predicted in science. It emphasises the intricate relationship between mathematics and physics, providing insights that challenge traditional notions of knowledge and certainty, while highlighting cutting-edge research that reveals the complexities of our understanding of the universe.
“`