Sun Apr 9 03:21:37 2023
(*6952cd93*):: https://www.quantamagazine.org/alien-calculus-could-save-particle-physics-from-infinities-20230406/ +public!
Today, physicists expect quantum electrodynamics (as the quantum field theory of electromagnetism is called) to start diverging somewhere around the 137th term. That is, perhaps, a138x138 may be larger than a137x137, and including it in the sum will make the prediction less — rather than more — precise.
That’s cool… perfect precision of the universe is impossible because of this but not for long…
“Divergent series are the invention of the devil, and it is shameful to base any demonstration on them whatsoever,” quipped Niels Henrik Abel in 1828. “For the most part the results are valid, it is true, but it is a curious thing. I am looking for the reason.”
*** ‘Alien Calculus’ Could Save Particle Physics From Infinities | Quanta Magazine
*** In the math of particle physics, every calculation should result in infinity. Physicists get around this by just ignoring certain parts of the equations — an approach that provides approximate answers. But by using the techniques known as “resurgence,” researchers hope to end the infinities and end up with perfectly precise predictions.
*** Quanta Magazine
*** Niels Abel – Quotations
*** Quotations by Niels Henrik Abel
*** Maths History
(*6952cd93*):: holographic simulation theory getting wins lately