The fine structure constant and numerical alchemy

Details The fine structure constant and numerical alchemy The fine structure constant and numerical alchemy

2010-09-09

arxiv.org/abs/1009.1711v1

Physics

General Physics

Scientific paper

We comment on past and more recent efforts to derive a formula yielding the fine structure constant in terms of integers and transcendent numbers. We analyse these "exoteric" attitudes and describe the myths regarding {\alpha}, which seems to have very ancient roots, tracing back to Cabbala and to medieval alchemic conceptions. We discuss the obsession for this constant developed by Pauli and the cultural "environment" in which such an "obsession" grew. We also derive a simple formula for {\alpha} in terms of two numbers {\pi} and 137 only. The formula we propose reproduces the experimental values up to the last significant digit, it has not any physical motivation and is the result of an alchemic combination of numbers. We make a comparison with other existing formulae, discuss the relevant limits of validity by comparison with the experimental values and discuss a criterion to recover a physical meaning, if existing, from their mathematical properties.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

The fine structure constant and numerical alchemy does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with The fine structure constant and numerical alchemy, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and The fine structure constant and numerical alchemy will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-558652