#3115: Unsolved Physics Problems
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The Three Types of Unsolved Physics Problem
Vague
[A Feynman diagram of two particles interacting via the electromagnetic force is to the right of Cueball. The diagram is drawn on a curved surface]
Cueball: What is the nature of time in quantum gravity? Is it a background parameter, a dynamic aspect of spacetime, or an emergent phenomenon?
Precise
[A scientific instrument and a nuclear reaction equation of gallium-71 becoming germanium-71 are to Megan's left. The equation says: 71Ga + νe → 71Ge + e- .]
Megan: Why does the S.A.G.E. Gallium Neutrino Capture Experiment produce only 75% as much germanium as predicted?
Cursed
[A rectangular block of zinc, with whiskers growing out of it, is visible to the right of White Hat]
White Hat: Why does some metal randomly grow hairs?
White Hat: It keeps causing short circuits and we have no idea what's going on.
Voice from off-panel: Is this a joke?
White Hat: No! Please help!
(Sourced from explainxkcd.com)
Title text:'Tin pest' makes more sense to me. Tin just doesn't want to be locked down in a shape like that. I get it. But why would any metal want to grow hair??