From Anthony Cutcliffe
Discussing the possibility that the universe is fractal, Amanda Gefter makes a small reference to Laurent Nottale’s theory of Scale Relativity (10 March, p 30). But she goes nowhere near doing the theory justice.
The basic concept adds scale invariance to Einstein’s general theory of relativity. The consequence is a minimum length (a quantum length), the Planck length, which cannot be further reduced. The Planck length has a similar role to the speed of light in general relativity as an asymptote that can be approached but never reached.
Among other things, Nottale’s theory:
1) Combines general relativity and quantum mechanics: Quantum mechanics becomes a manifestation of the fractal geometry of space-time in the same way gravity is in Einstein’s general theory of relativity a manifestation of the curvature of space-time.
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2) Removes problems in big bang theory and shows inflation is unnecessary.
3) Explains the transition of quantum effects to classical ones – it is all about scale as your article “Forever quantum” concludes (17 March, p 36).
4) Removes the various infinities that require “re-normalisation” that crop in quantum mechanics.
5) Makes testable predictions about the masses of various quarks and other particles, the value of the cosmological constant and numerous other predictions
I do not understand why Nottale’s theory has not been given wider coverage or discussion. If he is wrong it needs debunking, if he is right he deserves a Nobel prize.
Singapore
