Scientists Are Mapping the Boundaries of What Is Knowable and Unknowable
The article discusses the evolution of the understanding of predictability in physical systems, highlighting significant limitations established by recent research in physics and mathematics. From Pierre-Simon Laplace’s early belief in a knowable universe to contemporary insights into chaos and undecidability, the article illustrates intriguing complexities in determining future states of physical systems.
Key Points
- Laplace proposed a fully predictable universe, a notion challenged by chaos theory and quantum mechanics.
- Undecidability suggests that certain questions in physics cannot be answered, even with complete knowledge and computational power.
- A notable example of undecidability is a theoretical pinball machine created by Cris Moore, demonstrating unpredictable outcomes despite its simple design.
- Recent studies link undecidability to fundamental problems in quantum physics, including the spectral gap, with implications for materials science.
- Researchers are exploring whether liquids can function as computers, uncovering further limits on predictability in physical systems.
Why should I read this?
This article is essential for those interested in the boundaries of scientific knowledge and the philosophical implications of undecidability in physics. It offers a thought-provoking perspective on how far our understanding of the universe can reach and illustrates the intricate relationship between mathematics and physical theories, making it relevant to both scientists and those curious about the nature of reality.