Physics of the Impossible

01Understanding the Concept of 'Impossibility' in Physics

Ever wondered why certain phenomena are deemed 'impossible' in the realm of physics? Well, it's not because physicists are pessimists, but rather because they're realists. They understand that the universe operates according to certain laws, and anything that doesn't fit within these laws is, for now, considered 'impossible'. But here's the catch - 'impossible' doesn't mean 'never going to happen'. It's more like a puzzle that hasn't been solved yet. Think of it this way. You're trying to complete a jigsaw puzzle, but you're missing a few pieces. You can't complete the puzzle right now, but that doesn't mean it's impossible. You just need to find the missing pieces. That's how physicists approach the 'impossible'. They're always looking for the missing pieces that will help them complete the puzzle. Physics is the tool that scientists use to explore these seemingly impossible phenomena. It's like a torch that illuminates the dark corners of the universe, revealing the hidden laws and principles that govern everything. Physicists start with the fundamental principles, like the laws of motion and thermodynamics, and use them to explore the unknown. This exploration often leads to practical applications and technological advancements. For example, the study of quantum mechanics has led to the development of lasers and semiconductors, which are now integral parts of our everyday lives. In his book, Michio Kaku categorizes 'impossible' phenomena into three classes. The first class includes things that are impossible today but might become possible in the near future, like invisibility and teleportation. The second class includes things that are impossible according to our current understanding of physics, but might become possible if our understanding changes, like time travel. The third class includes things that are truly impossible, like perpetual motion machines, because they violate the fundamental laws of physics. These classes provide a framework for exploring the 'impossible'. They help physicists determine where to focus their efforts and how to approach their research. They also remind us that the 'impossible' is not a fixed concept, but a moving target that changes as our understanding of the universe evolves. So, the next time you hear that something is 'impossible', don't be disheartened. Instead, see it as a challenge, a puzzle waiting to be solved. Who knows, you might be the one to find the missing piece and turn the 'impossible' into the 'possible'. After all, as Kaku's book shows us, the 'impossible' is often just a stepping stone to the next great discovery in physics.