String Theory A candidate unified theory of all physical forces and particles. Inflation A period of accelerated cosmic expansion early in the history of the universe. Observable Universe The sum of all we can see. Also called “our universe.” Other Universe An unobserved region of spacetime, perhaps having distinct properties and laws of physics. calabi-yau Six-dimensional shape of hidden dimensions. Brane Short for “membrane.” It can be a two-dimensional sheet (like an ordinary membrane) or a lower- or higher-dimensional variant. Field A form of energy that fills space like a fog. Scalar Field A field described by a single number at every position. Examples: temperature, inflaton field. Moduli Scalar fields that describe the size and shape of hidden space dimensions. AnnIhilate To convert completely to radiation, as happens when matter and antimatter or branes and antibranes collide.
Inflation A period of accelerated cosmic expansion early in the history of the universe.
Observable Universe The sum of all we can see. Also called “our universe.”
Other Universe An unobserved region of spacetime, perhaps having distinct properties and laws of physics.
calabi-yau Six-dimensional shape of hidden dimensions.
Brane Short for “membrane.” It can be a two-dimensional sheet (like an ordinary membrane) or a lower- or higher-dimensional variant.
Field A form of energy that fills space like a fog.
Scalar Field A field described by a single number at every position. Examples: temperature, inflaton field.
Moduli Scalar fields that describe the size and shape of hidden space dimensions.
AnnIhilate To convert completely to radiation, as happens when matter and antimatter or branes and antibranes collide.
