| unified field theory | |
| —n | |
| any theory capable of describing in one set of equations the properties of gravitational fields, electromagnetic fields, and strong and weak nuclear interactions. No satisfactory theory has yet been found | |
unified field theory (y 'nə-fīd') Pronunciation Key
A theory that explains the four basic forces of nature (electromagnetism, gravity, strong force, and weak force) as manifestations of a single physical principle. No unified field theory that has been proposed so far has gained broad acceptance. Also called grand unified theory, theory of everything. |
Any theory in which two seemingly different forces are seen to be fundamentally identical. Maxwell's equations express a unified field theory that demonstrates the basic identity of electricity and magnetism, and the standard model postulates a basic identity for the strong force, the weak force, and electromagnetism.