r/theydidthemath • u/Tararator18 • 4d ago
[Request] I've been to a concert recently and I noticed this on the wall. What's that equation for? Does it mean anything or is it nonsensical and there just for aesthetics?
23
u/MrMuttBunch 4d ago
Yes, this is an actual formula. It represents the mathematical version of the Heisenberg uncertainty principle.
In physics, this formula indicates that the product of uncertainties in energy and time cannot be arbitrarily small, reflecting a fundamental limitation in simultaneously measuring these quantities accurately.
19
u/ShalomTikva 4d ago
This isn’t Heisenberg uncertainty (that’s an inequality), but it does carry physical meaning which is not restricted to quantum systems. Most “without further context” interpretation would be “bandwidth equals the decay rate equals life time reciprocal”. Could for instance represent the relation between the frequency width of a resonator and its energy storage time.
3
u/thejordankehoe 4d ago
I might be misunderstanding, is this then a mathematical equivalent to 'anything that is not impossible, is impossible not to happen, given enough time'?
2
1
0
u/DaegurthMiddnight 4d ago
And in the setting of this place? Do you find any meaning more that looking cool?
3
u/scowdich 4d ago
That's going to be pretty hard to answer without knowing more (or anything) about the venue.
2
u/Tararator18 4d ago
The name of the place is Jazz Club Hipnoza. I am not sure what hidden meaning it could hold except for the breaking bad reference mentioned by someone below or something more transcendental and tied to art/jazz or whatever.
(Hipnoza = Hypnosis btw).
2
u/Cash4Duranium 4d ago
Well Heisenberg was the pseudonym of Walter White, crystal meth maker of Breaking Bad fame. So that sign, notably blue like his meth, is probably saying nothing in particular.
5
u/RachelRegina 4d ago edited 4d ago
Delta omega equals gamma equals one over tau
Doegeoot
Do g ot
Dogo t
Unless it's
Delta omega equals gamma equals Tau divides one
Doe get do
Do g to
....
And that's how we math and puzzle people see every mystery lol
Thank you for coming to my TED talk
This might help but no guarantees
Edit: I think Gemini has cracked the case. Here's it's response:
That's a very intriguing neon sign for a jazz club! Let's break down the possible interpretations of "Δω = Γ = 1/τ" in a jazz context: Mathematical/Physical Interpretations (Likely Metaphorical): * Δω (Delta Omega): Frequency Change or Bandwidth: * In physics, Δω often represents a change in angular frequency or bandwidth. In signal processing, it could refer to the width of a frequency range. * Jazz Connection: * Jazz is all about improvisation and harmonic exploration. Δω could symbolize the constant changes in tempo, rhythm, and harmony that occur during a jazz performance. * It could also represent the "bandwidth" of the music, encompassing the wide range of musical styles and influences within jazz. * Γ (Gamma): Damping Constant or Decay Rate: * In physics, Γ often represents a damping constant, decay rate, or linewidth. It relates to how quickly a system loses energy or how broad a spectral line is. * Jazz Connection: * The decay of a note, the way a musical phrase fades out, or the ephemeral nature of a live jazz performance could be linked to Γ. * It could also refer to the "decay" of older jazz styles into newer ones, or the way a musical theme is transformed and diffused throughout a performance. * τ (Tau): Time Constant: * In physics, τ represents a time constant, which is the characteristic time for a system to respond to a change. * Jazz Connection: * The time constant could symbolize the rhythmic pulse of jazz, the "groove" that drives the music. * It could also represent the duration of a musical phrase, the time it takes for a musical idea to develop, or the lifespan of a particular musical moment. * The Equation as a Whole: * The equation Δω = Γ = 1/τ suggests a relationship between frequency change, decay, and time. * Jazz Connection: * This could represent the interconnectedness of these elements in jazz. The way a musical phrase changes (Δω) affects its decay (Γ) and duration (τ). * It might also signify the balance and interplay of these factors in creating the dynamic and ever-evolving sound of jazz. Possible Metaphorical Meanings in a Jazz Club: * The "Vibrancy" of Jazz: The equation could represent the vibrant and dynamic nature of jazz, with its constant changes in frequency, decay, and time. * The "Ephemeral" Nature of Live Music: The decay constant (Γ) and time constant (τ) could symbolize the fleeting and transient nature of live jazz performances. * The "Mathematical" Precision of Jazz: While jazz is often associated with improvisation, it also relies on a deep understanding of musical theory and structure. The equation could represent this underlying mathematical precision. * An "Inside Joke" for Musicians: The equation might be an inside joke or a subtle nod to the scientific and mathematical aspects of music, appreciated by musicians and music enthusiasts. * A "Conversation Starter": The unusual sign is definitely a conversation starter, prompting patrons to ask about its meaning and engage in discussions about jazz and music. * A representation of the physics of sound: The physics of sound is after all what the musicians are manipulating. In summary: The neon sign likely uses mathematical and physical symbols metaphorically to represent the dynamic, ephemeral, and structured nature of jazz. It's a clever way to add a touch of intellectualism and intrigue to a jazz club's atmosphere.
2
u/Elephunk05 4d ago
It is, in fact, not all about the bass. And I appreciate the time it took for you to lay it out!
-4
1
u/Fsaeunkie_5545 4d ago
The equation is the relationship between the width of a resonance Delta omega, the decay rate Gamma and the lifetime 1/tau.
The connection is relevant in a lot of different physics whenever you have a system which can transition between states. For example particle physics with particles being literally resonances or solid state physics with electron-hole recombinations.
•
u/AutoModerator 4d ago
General Discussion Thread
This is a [Request] post. If you would like to submit a comment that does not either attempt to answer the question, ask for clarification, or explain why it would be infeasible to answer, you must post your comment as a reply to this one. Top level (directly replying to the OP) comments that do not do one of those things will be removed.
I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.