PBS Space Time Season 2018 Episode 39 Why String Theory is Right

Why String Theory is Right is a captivating and informative episode from the PBS Space Time series, originally aired in 2018. In this episode, the team of experts from the show set out to explore and explain the complex and abstract concept of string theory - a widely debated and often misunderstood concept in modern physics.

The show begins with a short introduction to the basic principles of string theory, including the concept of particles as tiny strings, the unifying force of gravity, and the idea that there may be multiple universes existing in parallel with ours. From there, the experts delve deeper into the science behind string theory, using clear and concise explanations to gradually build a more complex understanding of the concept.

One of the main points of discussion in this episode is the idea that string theory may be the most complete and accurate description of the universe we have available. The experts explain that string theory offers a framework that is capable of unifying all of the known fundamental forces of nature - including gravity, electromagnetism, and the strong and weak nuclear forces - into a single, coherent theory. They go on to explain that this is something that no other theory has been able to achieve, and as such, string theory is attracting increasing attention and support within the physics community.

In addition to this, Why String Theory is Right explores the concept of extra dimensions, which is another key element of string theory. The experts explain that, according to string theory, the universe may exist not just in the three dimensions that we are able to perceive, but in as many as ten or even more dimensions that we cannot see. They go on to explain that this concept is not as far-fetched as it may sound, and that there are a number of reasons why scientists believe that there may be extra dimensions that we cannot detect.

Throughout the episode, the experts use a range of examples and real-life scenarios to help viewers understand the complex concepts they are discussing. For example, they use the analogy of a symphony orchestra to describe how the different elements of the universe work together in harmony, and they use the example of a garden hose to explain the idea of extra dimensions in a way that is easy to grasp.

Perhaps one of the most interesting parts of this episode is the discussion around the experimental evidence for string theory. The experts explain that, while there is currently no concrete evidence to support string theory, there are a number of experiments and observations that suggest that it may be the correct model of the universe. For example, they discuss the concept of black hole entropy - which is a measure of the information content of a black hole - and explain how string theory is able to explain this concept in a way that traditional theories cannot. They also delve into the world of string cosmology, which is a branch of string theory that deals with the origins and evolution of the universe, and explain how string theory is able to provide solutions for a number of outstanding cosmological problems.

Overall, Why String Theory is Right is a fascinating and engaging episode of PBS Space Time that will appeal to anyone with an interest in the universe and the fundamental laws of nature. With its clear and concise explanations, engaging presenters, and dynamic visual aids, the show offers a compelling and accessible introduction to one of the most complex scientific theories of our time.