How do extra dimensions work?

Extra dimensions are a complex yet fascinating concept in physics. Here are some insights from Tim Ferriss's guests on how they work:

1. Lisa Randall's Explanation:

   • Hidden Dimensions: We perceive three spatial dimensions (up/down, forward/backward, left/right), but there might be additional dimensions we don't see. These could be tiny and hidden or due to the warping of spacetime caused by variations in gravity 1.
   • Brains (B-R-A-N-E): A brain could be a three-dimensional surface in a higher dimensional space. If an extra dimension exists, observable constraints limit its impact on our three-dimensional perception 2.

2. Janna Levin's Insights:

   • Dimensions and Video Games: Like the Pacman game, which operates in two dimensions (2D) without needing a third dimension for its movement, our universe could similarly exist in three dimensions (3D) without requiring a higher-dimensional space. This challenges the idea that higher dimensions are necessary for our existence, illustrating that complex mathematical rules can govern our universe without requiring physical embedding into higher dimensions 3 4.
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       1

       Hidden Dimensions Explained

       00:27:42
       
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       2

       Extra Dimensions Explained

       01:06:00
       
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       3

       Understanding Dimensions

       00:37:06
       
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       4

       The Nature of Dimensions

       00:40:23
       
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       5

       Cosmic Mysteries Unveiled

       01:01:48
       
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       6

       Structure of Existence

       00:37:17
       

3. Dr. Michio Kaku's Perspective:

   • String Theory and Higher Dimensions: String theory suggests that our universe, a three-dimensional bubble, exists in an eleven-dimensional hyperspace. We're a small part of this much larger 11-dimensional space known as "nervana." Testing for deviations in Newton's laws of gravity might provide evidence for these additional dimensions 5.

4. Stephen Wolfram's View:

   • Structure of Space: Space consists of discrete "atoms of space" forming a network. Everything in the universe, including dark matter, results from the properties and interactions within this network 6.

These perspectives offer a glimpse into the complex, multi-dimensional nature of the universe and how higher dimensions might be hidden or manifested in ways beyond our everyday perception.