Latest news with #UniversityOfAlaska
Yahoo
01-07-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
3D Time Could Solve Physics' Biggest Problem, Says Bizarre New Study
Clocks might be far more fundamental to physics than we ever realized. A new theory suggests what we see around us – from the smallest of quantum actions to the cosmic crawl of entire galaxies – could all be literally a matter of time. Three dimensions of time, in fact. The basic idea of 3D time isn't new. But University of Alaska geophysicist Gunther Kletetschka says his mathematical framework is the first to reproduce known properties of the Universe, making it a somewhat serious contender for uniting physics under one consistent model. "Earlier 3D time proposals were primarily mathematical constructs without these concrete experimental connections," says Kletetschka. Related: "My work transforms the concept from an interesting mathematical possibility into a physically testable theory with multiple independent verification channels." Something is wrong with our current models of reality. While quantum mechanics and general relativity both explain our Universe to a degree that's uncannily accurate, each emerges from fundamentally distinct grounds – one granular and random, the other seamless and immutable. These irreconcilable starting points make it a challenge to construct a single, all-ruling theory of physics that explains gravity in the same way as it does the other three forces. Not that theorists haven't tried. Kletetschka proposes a complete rethink on the basics, pulling back the fabric of space-time itself to come up with a new bedrock to base reality on. While we use the word time to describe virtually any series of events, there's a clear contrast in scale that extends from the near-instantaneous flitting of quantum particles to the eons of cosmic growth stretching into eternity. On the cosmic end, time can be relative, distorting in relation to mass and acceleration. Up close, time is undecided, equally capable of looking to the past as it does to the future. And drifting in the middle is an existence as boringly predictable as tomorrow's sunrise. Separating these scales into their own dimensions provides us with three paths to follow, each marching to its own beat at right angles to the others. By embedding these timelines in mathematics that preserves cause and effect, it's possible to link all three dimensions in a way that could explain everything from how fundamental particles pop up in quantum fields, to why we can't experience quantum weirdness, to the expanding boundaries of the Universe itself. "These three time dimensions are the primary fabric of everything, like the canvas of a painting," says Kletetschka. "Space still exists with its three dimensions, but it's more like the paint on the canvas rather than the canvas itself." Related: Importantly, the framework precisely reproduces known masses of a number of particles, such as top quarks, muons, and electrons, and volunteers predictions for the unknown masses of neutrinos and subtle influences on the speeds of gravitational waves. That means the theory could receive support from future experiments, and potentially contribute to a more united approach to physics as a whole. "The path to unification might require fundamentally reconsidering the nature of physical reality itself," says Kletetschka. This research was published in Reports in Advances of Physical Sciences. Physicists Catch Light in 'Imaginary Time' in Scientific First Not All Uranium Can Be Used in Weapons. Here's What 'Enrichment' Means. Scientists Caught Sperm Defying One of Newton's Laws of Physics
Yahoo
28-06-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Time Is Three-Dimensional and Space Is Just a Side Effect, Scientist Says
A fringe new theory suggests that time is the fundamental structure of the physical universe, and space is merely a byproduct. According to Gunther Kletetschka, a geologist — not a physicist, you'll note, but more on that later — from the University of Alaska Fairbanks, time is three-dimensional and the dimensions of space are an emergent property of it, a press release from the university explains. "These three time dimensions are the primary fabric of everything, like the canvas of a painting," Kletetschka said in the blurb. "Space still exists with its three dimensions, but it's more like the paint on the canvas rather than the canvas itself." Three-dimensional time is a theory that has been proposed before, though generally in pretty inaccessible terms. Similarly to the explanation for three dimensions of space — length, width, and depth — 3D time theory claims that time can move forward in the linear progression we know, sideways between parallel possible timelines, and along each one of those as it unfolds. Yes, it's a pretty mind-blowing concept — but scientists have long theorized that time, as the fourth dimension in Albert Einstein's theory of relativity, is less intuitive than it seems in everyday reality. While other 3D time theories rely on traditional physics, Kletetschka suggests that his may help explain the many outstanding questions accepted physics still harbors. In a somewhat grandiose manner, the geologist even claims that his 3D time proposal could operate as a grand unifying theory or "theory of everything," the Holy Grail of quantum mechanics that would explain how the universe works on a sweeping level. "The path to unification might require fundamentally reconsidering the nature of physical reality itself," the scientist said. "This theory demonstrates how viewing time as three-dimensional can naturally resolve multiple physics puzzles through a single coherent mathematical framework." Obviously, there are an astonishing number of caveats to consider here. For one, Kletetschka is not a theoretical physicist — he's a geologist, and according to his university bio he also has some experience in astronomy. Extraordinary claims all call for extraordinary evidence. And the claims here are already stirring controversy: as an editor's note added to the end of the press release cautions, the scientist's theory was published in the journal Reports in Advances of Physical Sciences, a "legitimate step," but one that isn't remotely sufficient to take it out of the realm of the fringe. That journal, the note adds, is "relatively low-impact and niche, and its peer review does not match the rigorous scrutiny applied by top-tier journals." "The theory is still in the early stages of scrutiny," the note concluded, "and has not been published in leading physics journals or independently verified through experiments or peer-reviewed replication." Still, it's a fascinating concept to consider — especially because we still don't know exactly how time works, anyway. More on fringe theories: Physicists Say We Were Completely Wrong About How Gravity Works
Sustainability Times
27-06-2025
- Science
- Sustainability Times
'Time Was Here First': Mind-Blowing Discovery Reveals the Universe Was Born from Time Itself, Not from Space at All
IN A NUTSHELL 🚀 Dr. Gunther Kletetschka proposes a new theory where the universe is built on three dimensions of time , rather than space. , rather than space. 🔬 The theory treats time as the core structure, with space emerging as a secondary effect, challenging traditional physics assumptions. as the core structure, with space emerging as a secondary effect, challenging traditional physics assumptions. 📊 Kletetschka's framework accurately predicts the masses of fundamental particles, bridging the gap between abstract mathematics and measurable reality. 🌌 This innovative theory could pave the way for integrating quantum mechanics with gravity, potentially leading to a unified theory of everything. In the realm of modern physics, the foundational concept of spacetime has long been considered a cornerstone, weaving together the three dimensions of space and one of time. However, a groundbreaking theory proposed by Dr. Gunther Kletetschka from the University of Alaska Fairbanks is challenging this notion. Dr. Kletetschka suggests that the universe may fundamentally be built on three dimensions of time, with space emerging as a secondary consequence. This theory is not just a philosophical musing; it holds the potential to redefine our understanding of the universe's fabric. Let's delve into the intriguing implications of this theory and explore how it might reshape our perception of reality. The Revolutionary Idea of Three-Dimensional Time Dr. Kletetschka's theory introduces a framework where time is not a singular, linear dimension, but rather a complex, three-dimensional entity. This revolutionary idea suggests that space, as we perceive it, is not the fundamental backdrop of reality but a derived effect of how time behaves across different scales and orientations. By proposing a six-dimensional setup—three axes for time and three for space—this theory reimagines the universe's basic structure. In traditional physics, space and time form an inseparable union, but Kletetschka's model treats time as the core structure. His work challenges us to reconsider long-held assumptions, providing a new lens through which to view the universe. In practical terms, his model successfully reproduces known properties of fundamental particles, particularly their masses, which the Standard Model of particle physics struggles to explain. The ability to predict these masses with a high degree of accuracy underscores the theory's potential to describe real-world phenomena. By offering a unified description of nature, Kletetschka's theory could pave the way for a new era in fundamental physics, providing insights into quantum gravity and unification. 'Robot Did the Surgery': U.S. Doctors Complete First-Ever Heart Transplant Without Opening the Chest Addressing the Challenges of Time's Complexity The concept of multiple time dimensions is not entirely new; previous theories have explored this idea, but they remained largely abstract, with limited connections to measurable phenomena. Such models often encountered logical paradoxes, like effects occurring before their causes, which undermined their validity. Kletetschka's framework, however, cleverly sidesteps these issues. By constructing a mathematical model that maintains an ordered flow of time across all three dimensions, he ensures events unfold in a consistent sequence. This innovation transforms the theory from a theoretical construct into a physically testable framework. What sets Kletetschka's work apart is its ability to make concrete predictions that align with experimental data. By accurately reproducing the masses of fundamental particles, the theory bridges the gap between abstract mathematics and observable reality. This marks a significant departure from earlier proposals, solidifying its place in the scientific community as a theory with tangible implications. 'Robots Can Feel Now': New Color-Changing Skins Let Machines React Instantly Without Wires, Screens, or Human Input Implications for Quantum Mechanics and Gravity If Kletetschka's theory withstands further scrutiny, it could have profound implications for the integration of quantum mechanics with gravity—a quest that has eluded physicists for generations. The potential to reconcile these two pillars of modern physics offers a tantalizing glimpse into a unified theory of everything. The next steps in this research involve refining the mathematical framework and identifying experiments that could test the theory's validity. Particle physics and cosmology are promising fields for such investigations, offering opportunities to observe the theory's predictions in action. This pursuit of a unified framework is not merely an academic exercise; it holds the promise of unlocking new understanding of the universe's most profound mysteries. By challenging established paradigms, Kletetschka's work encourages a reevaluation of our place in the cosmos, urging us to explore the fundamental nature of reality. 'We're Coming for SpaceX': Honda Shocks the Planet With Reusable Rocket Launch and Landing That Just Rewrote Japan's Space Ambitions Future Directions and Open Questions Kletetschka's groundbreaking theory opens numerous avenues for future research. As scientists continue to explore the universe's intricate fabric, this theory provides a new perspective that could revolutionize our understanding of space and time. The potential applications of a three-dimensional time model are vast, offering insights into particle interactions, cosmological phenomena, and beyond. As researchers delve deeper into this theory, they will seek to refine its mathematical underpinnings and explore its implications across various domains of physics. The quest for a unified theory remains one of science's most ambitious challenges, and Kletetschka's work is a promising step in that direction. In a world where longstanding scientific paradigms are constantly challenged, how might this innovative theory reshape our understanding of the universe, and what new mysteries will it uncover? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.6/5 (20)
The Independent
29-05-2025
- Politics
- The Independent
Swiss glacier collapse renews focus on risks of climate change as glaciers retreat around the world
The landslide that buried most of a Swiss village this week is focusing renewed attention on the role of global warming in glacier collapses around the world and the increasing dangers. How glaciers collapse — from the Alps and Andes to the Himalayas and Antarctica — can differ, scientists say. But in almost every instance, climate change is playing a role. In Switzerland, the mountainside gave way Wednesday near the village of Blatten, in the southern Lötschental valley, because the rock face above the Birch Glacier had become unstable when mountain permafrost melted, causing debris to fall and cover the glacier in recent years, said Martin Truffer, a physics professor at the University of Alaska who studies how glaciers move. While the debris insulated the glacier and slowed melting, its weight caused the ice to begin moving — which accelerated dramatically a few weeks ago. Authorities ordered the evacuation of about 300 people, as well as all livestock, from the village in recent days, 'when it became clear that there's a whole mountainside that's about to collapse,' said Truffer, who grew up in Switzerland. Glacial lakes pose threat Lakes that form at the base of glaciers as they melt and retreat also sometimes burst, often with catastrophic results. Water can even lift an entire glacier, allowing it to drain, said Truffer, adding that Alaska's capital of Juneau has flooded in recent years because a lake forms every year on a rapidly retreating glacier and eventually bursts. In 2022, an apartment building-sized chunk of the Marmolada glacier in Italy's Dolomite mountains detached during a summer heat wave, sending an avalanche of debris down the popular summer hiking destination, killing 11. A glacier in Tibet's Aru mountain range suddenly collapsed in 2016, killing nine people and their livestock, followed a few months later by the collapse of another glacier. There also have been collapses in Peru, including one in 2006 that caused a mini tsunami; most recently, a glacial lagoon overflowed in April, triggering a landslide that killed two. 'It's amazing sometimes how rapidly they can collapse,' said Lonnie Thompson, a glacier expert at the Ohio State University. 'The instability of these glaciers is a real and growing problem, and there are thousands and thousands of people that are at risk.' Scientists say melting glaciers will raise sea levels for decades, but the loss of inland glaciers also acutely affects those living nearby who rely on them for water for drinking water and agriculture. No way to stop the melting Scientists say greenhouse gases from the burning of fossil fuels such as coal have already locked in enough global warming to doom many of the world's glaciers — which already have retreated significantly. For example, glaciers in the Alps have lost 50% of their area since 1950, and the rate at which ice is being lost has been accelerating, with 'projections ... that all the glaciers in the Alps could be gone in this century,' Thompson said. Switzerland, which has the most glaciers of any country in Europe, saw 4% of its total glacier volume disappear in 2023, the second-biggest decline in a single year after a 6% drop in 2022. A 2023 study found that Peru has lost more than half of its glacier surface in the last six decades, and 175 glaciers disappeared due to climate change between 2016 and 2020, mostly due to the increase in the average global temperature. A study published Thursday in Science said that even if global temperatures stabilized at their current level, 40% of the world's glaciers still would be lost. But if warming were limited to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit ) — the long-term warming limit since the late 1800s called for by the 2015 Paris climate agreement — twice as much glacier ice could be preserved than would be otherwise. Even so, many areas will become ice-free no matter what, Truffer, the University of Alaska expert. 'There's places in Alaska where we've shown that it doesn't take any more global warming,' for them to disappear, Truffer said. 'The reason some ... (still) exist is simply because it takes a certain amount of time for them to melt. But the climate is already such that they're screwed.' ___ The Associated Press' climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP's standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at
Associated Press
29-05-2025
- Politics
- Associated Press
Swiss glacier collapse renews focus on risks of climate change as glaciers retreat around the world
The landslide that buried most of a Swiss village this week is focusing renewed attention on the role of global warming in glacier collapses around the world and the increasing dangers. How glaciers collapse — from the Alps and Andes to the Himalayas and Antarctica — can differ, scientists say. But in almost every instance, climate change is playing a role. In Switzerland, the mountainside gave way Wednesday near the village of Blatten, in the southern Lötschental valley, because the rock face above the Birch Glacier had become unstable when mountain permafrost melted, causing debris to fall and cover the glacier in recent years, said Martin Truffer, a physics professor at the University of Alaska who studies how glaciers move. While the debris insulated the glacier and slowed melting, its weight caused the ice to begin moving — which accelerated dramatically a few weeks ago. Authorities ordered the evacuation of about 300 people, as well as all livestock, from the village in recent days, 'when it became clear that there's a whole mountainside that's about to collapse,' said Truffer, who grew up in Switzerland. Glacial lakes pose threat Lakes that form at the base of glaciers as they melt and retreat also sometimes burst, often with catastrophic results. Water can even lift an entire glacier, allowing it to drain, said Truffer, adding that Alaska's capital of Juneau has flooded in recent years because a lake forms every year on a rapidly retreating glacier and eventually bursts. In 2022, an apartment building-sized chunk of the Marmolada glacier in Italy's Dolomite mountains detached during a summer heat wave, sending an avalanche of debris down the popular summer hiking destination, killing 11. A glacier in Tibet's Aru mountain range suddenly collapsed in 2016, killing nine people and their livestock, followed a few months later by the collapse of another glacier. There also have been collapses in Peru, including one in 2006 that caused a mini tsunami; most recently, a glacial lagoon overflowed in April, triggering a landslide that killed two. 'It's amazing sometimes how rapidly they can collapse,' said Lonnie Thompson, a glacier expert at the Ohio State University. 'The instability of these glaciers is a real and growing problem, and there are thousands and thousands of people that are at risk.' Scientists say melting glaciers will raise sea levels for decades, but the loss of inland glaciers also acutely affects those living nearby who rely on them for water for drinking water and agriculture. No way to stop the melting Scientists say greenhouse gases from the burning of fossil fuels such as coal have already locked in enough global warming to doom many of the world's glaciers — which already have retreated significantly. For example, glaciers in the Alps have lost 50% of their area since 1950, and the rate at which ice is being lost has been accelerating, with 'projections ... that all the glaciers in the Alps could be gone in this century,' Thompson said. Switzerland, which has the most glaciers of any country in Europe, saw 4% of its total glacier volume disappear in 2023, the second-biggest decline in a single year after a 6% drop in 2022. A 2023 study found that Peru has lost more than half of its glacier surface in the last six decades, and 175 glaciers disappeared due to climate change between 2016 and 2020, mostly due to the increase in the average global temperature. A study published Thursday in Science said that even if global temperatures stabilized at their current level, 40% of the world's glaciers still would be lost. But if warming were limited to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit ) — the long-term warming limit since the late 1800s called for by the 2015 Paris climate agreement — twice as much glacier ice could be preserved than would be otherwise. Even so, many areas will become ice-free no matter what, Truffer, the University of Alaska expert. 'There's places in Alaska where we've shown that it doesn't take any more global warming,' for them to disappear, Truffer said. 'The reason some ... (still) exist is simply because it takes a certain amount of time for them to melt. But the climate is already such that they're screwed.' ___ The Associated Press' climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP's standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at
