On 6/12/2020 2:55 AM, Telmo Menezes wrote:
Hello all,
I've been reading here often the claim that physics is about the "real
stuff" and math is a human construction that helps us make sense of
the real stuff, but it is just an approximation of reality. So here's
a thought experiment on this topic.
Let us imagine I program a digital computer to keep iterating through
all possible integer values greater than 2 of the variables a, b, c
and n. If the following condition is satisfied:
a^n + b^n = c^n
then the computer turns on a light. I let it run for one year. Will
the light turn on during that year?
So my questions are:
(1) Can you use theoretical physics to make a correct prediction?
Yes. Theory of theoretical physics includes arithmetic and in fact your
question assumes it.
(2) Can you use math to make a correct prediction?
Not unless the math can predict how fast the computer runs and how
reliable it is.
Brent
Notice that I am asking a question that is as hard-nosed as it can be.
No metaphysics, just a question about an observable event in a
physical system during a well-defined time period. Will the light turn on?
What gives?
Best,
Telmo
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