Subscribe now

Physics

How one theory ties together everything we know about the universe

All known natural phenomena fit into just a few categories and unifying them all is quantum field theory, says physicist Matt Strassler

By Matt Strassler

8 March 2024

You can sip your coffee thanks to the fundamental forces of nature

Vladimir Arndt / Alamy

The following is an extract from our Lost in Space-Time newsletter. Each month, we hand over the keyboard to a physicist or mathematician to tell you about fascinating ideas from their corner of the universe. You can sign up for Lost in Space-Time for free here.

Though our world is bewildering in its diversity, all known natural phenomena can be classified into just a few categories. Four of these – gravitational, electromagnetic, strong nuclear and weak nuclear – are…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox! We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

View introductory offers

No commitment, cancel anytime*

Offer ends 2nd of July 2024.

*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.

Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account