What is the difference between string theory and dark matter?

Dark matter is unseen matter that holds stars together in galaxies. String theory holds several possibilities for the existence of dark matter. String theory provides a natural candidate for dark matter in supersymmetric particles, which are needed to make the theory work but which scientists have never observed.

Who invented M-theory?

physicist Edward Witten
Then, in 1995, the physicist Edward Witten discovered the mother of all string theories. He found various indications that the perturbative string theories fit together into a coherent nonperturbative theory, which he dubbed M-theory.

Why is it called M-theory?

Origin of the term In the absence of an understanding of the true meaning and structure of M-theory, Witten has suggested that the M should stand for “magic”, “mystery”, or “membrane” according to taste, and the true meaning of the title should be decided when a more fundamental formulation of the theory is known.

How does string theory explain quantum gravity?

The theory explains gravity via a particular vibrating string whose properties correspond to that of the hypothetical graviton, a quantum mechanical particle that would carry the gravitational force.

Why is loop quantum gravity wrong?

In gravity the loops themselves are not in space because there is no space. The loops are space because they are the quantum excitations of the gravitational field, which is the physical space. It therefore makes no sense to think of a loop being displaced by a small amount in space.

What are the basics of string theory?

The Basics of String Theory. At its core, string theory uses a model of one-dimensional strings in place of the particles of quantum physics. These strings, the size of the Planck length (i.e. 10-35 m) vibrate at specific resonant frequencies.

What is m and M theory?

M-theory (the “M” stands for the mother of all theories, magic, mystery, or matrix, depending on the source) is an adaptation of superstring theory developed by Ed Witten of Princeton and Paul Townsend of Cambridge .

What is M theory in physics?

M-theory is a theory in physics that unifies all consistent versions of superstring theory. The existence of such a theory was first conjectured by Edward Witten at a string theory conference at the University of Southern California in the spring of 1995.

What is theory in physics?

1 : a theory in physics based on the concept of the subdivision of radiant energy into finite quanta and applied to numerous processes involving transference or transformation of energy in an atomic or molecular scale. 2 : quantum mechanics.