Quantum theory and general relativity conflict from "summary" of The Quantum Universe by Brian Cox,Jeff Forshaw
Quantum theory and general relativity conflict because they describe the universe in fundamentally different ways. Quantum theory governs the behavior of subatomic particles, such as electrons and photons, while general relativity describes the force of gravity on a cosmic scale. At the heart of the conflict is the issue of scale. Quantum theory works perfectly well when describing the behavior of particles on the smallest scales, but it breaks down when applied to the vast expanse of the cosmos. General relativity, on the other hand, accurately describes the force of gravity on a large scale, such as the motion of planets and the bending of light by massive objects. However, when trying to apply general relativity to the quantum realm, inconsistencies arise. The conflict between these two theories becomes apparent when scientists attempt to describe the behavior of the universe at the moment of the Big Bang. At this moment, the universe was incredibly small and incredibly dense, requiring a theory that can accurately describe both the quantum and gravitational forces at play. One proposed solution to this conflict is the development of a theory of quantum gravity, which would unify the principles of quantum theory and general relativity into a single, coherent framework. However, creating such a theory has proven to be incredibly challenging, as it requires reconciling two fundamentally different ways of understanding the universe. Until a theory of quantum gravity is developed, the conflict between quantum theory and general relativity will remain a central challenge in the field of theoretical physics.
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