Since forces can merge into one at very high energies (e.g. electroweak is the unification of electromagnetism and the weak force, GUT is a hypothetical unification of electromagnetism, weak, and strong force), could one of the fundamental forces split into multiple forces at very low energies (like how the electroweak force split into electromagnetism and the weak force as the universe cooled down)? I assume not, since there have been experiments done very close to absolute zero and there aren’t any big news about new forces being discovered.

Also, could it be possible that a hidden fifth fundamental force exists in the universe? If it existed, how would we detect it? How many fundamental forces could exist in the universe? Which of the four fundamental forces most closely align with “the Force” from Star Wars? Why is gravity “incompatible” with quantum mechanics? Why were the weak force and strong force so uncreatively named? Why are “W” and “Z” bosons called the way they are? Why not something like “weak boson” and “zero boson”, why the letters? Why is the graviton so difficult to detect when we have already found gravitational waves?

  • FuglyDuck@lemmy.world
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    1 day ago

    Short answer? probably not. particularly when considering the second paragraph.

    “the force” is not a fundamental force as described in physics. Speaking as a fan of Star Wars, don’t get me wrong, but The Force™ is bullshit handwavium to explain why the BathrobeRaverSquad can do the things they do. you’re not going to find some special force literally or proverbially fictitious that will let someone do the things they do.

    If there was, we’d see that in the world today.

    All of that said, our understanding of the universe and it’s nature is imperfect. It’s something we improved incrimentally getting better and more accurate models as we progress. it’s certainly possible that there is something new to be found, but it’s highly unlikely.