Quantum theory and general relativity are incompatible from "summary" of A Brief History of Time by Stephen W. Hawking
The problem of combining quantum theory and general relativity is one of the major obstacles in theoretical physics. Quantum theory successfully describes the behavior of particles at the smallest scales, while general relativity explains the force of gravity and the large-scale structure of the universe. However, when we try to apply both theories simultaneously, we encounter deep-seated conflicts that have yet to be resolved. One of the main issues is that quantum theory treats particles as point-like objects with no size or shape, while general relativity describes gravity as the curvature of space and time caused by massive objects. This disparity in the fundamental nature of particles makes it difficult to reconcile the two theories mathematically. Another challenge arises from the concept of spacetime in general relativity, which is continuous and smooth, while quantum theory suggests that spacetime is made up of discrete, indivisible units. This discrepancy in the nature of spacetime further complicates the integration of the two theories. Furthermore, quantum theory relies on probabilities and uncertainties at the quantum level, leading to the existence of multiple possible outcomes for a given event. In contrast, general relativity predicts deterministic outcomes based on the curvature of spacetime. This disparity in predictability poses a significant barrier to unifying the two theories. Despite numerous attempts by physicists to develop a unified theory that encompasses both quantum theory and general relativity, a definitive solution remains elusive. The quest for a theory of quantum gravity continues to be a central focus of modern theoretical physics, with researchers exploring various approaches such as string theory, loop quantum gravity, and other quantum gravity models. The ultimate goal is to create a comprehensive framework that can accurately describe the behavior of particles at both the quantum and cosmic scales.
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