After having found nothing similar to the thread I wish to produce via the search function, I'd like to now take the time to discuss the nature of physical constants and their role within the theory of alternate universes. Before we begin (and before I pose my own questions) let's agree on a definition to use, so that we may prevent any potential confusion. This one I pulled up from Wikipedia, and it appears to be logically sound.

"A physical constant is a physical quantity that is generally believed to be both universal in nature and constant in time. It can be contrasted with a mathematical constant, which is a fixed numerical value but does not directly involve any physical measurement.

There are many physical constants in science, some of the most widely recognized being the speed of light in vacuum c, the gravitational constant G, Planck's constant h, the electric constant ε0, and the elementary charge e. Physical constants can take many dimensional forms: the speed of light signifies a maximum speed limit of the universe and is expressed dimensionally as length divided by time; while the fine-structure constant α, which characterizes the strength of the electromagnetic interaction, is dimensionless."

Physical constants, as far as I am aware, are the "rules" of a universe. Because of the way our universe's rules are set up specific physical phenomenon are possible (nuclear bonding, chemical bonding, stars and planets can form, and so on). If we assume that the existence of other universes is possible, we must also take into account that their constants may not be equal to our own. The gravitational constant of another universe may be too great or too insufficient to allow a star to form correctly, and on top of that, may not allow for the formation of organisms that make up what see as life. The concept of naturally occurring constants raises many questions though, and I feel it is appropriate to raise the questions that have come to mind. I do not believe that any of the questions can be definitively answered, but I would like to hear about your ideas regarding them.



1- Why do universal constants never observably fluctuate within our universe?

2- Do these constants need to be maintained by something in order to remain the way they are? If they do not, why?

3- Can the nature of physical constants be scientifically studied so that we can come up with solid answers?




Thoughts? Ideas?