A challenge to the symmetry of laws of physics

In summary, scientists have discovered a planet that is 10 times the size of Jupiter and orbits its own star in under 24 hours. However, it is expected to soon spiral into its searingly-hot sun, defying the laws of physics. This discovery was made with a one in 2000 chance of finding it, but it is not as rare as it may seem as more and more planets are being detected.
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WaveJumper said:
"It's the planet that really shouldn't exist – or at least not for long. It is 10 times the size of Jupiter, orbits its own star in under 24 hours and should soon be spiralling into the surface of its searingly-hot sun..."

Full story:

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/planet-found-that-defies-the-laws-of-physics-1777738.html
Ugh that's a horrifyingly bad title. Defies the laws of physics? I'm sorry, but no. We just managed to catch it before it died.

And the article? Wow. That's absolutely ridiculous. One in 2000 chance of finding it? I'm sorry, but no. You can't just divide the expected remaining lifetime by the current lifetime and get a probability out. It doesn't work that way. The fact is that we've detected many hundreds of planets so far, and we're going to be detecting many thousands more over the next few years. A great number of them are going to be 'unusual' in some respect or another.
 

Related to A challenge to the symmetry of laws of physics

1. What is the symmetry of laws of physics?

The symmetry of laws of physics refers to the idea that the laws of physics remain the same regardless of certain transformations, such as changes in position, time, or direction.

2. How does a challenge to the symmetry of laws of physics arise?

A challenge to the symmetry of laws of physics may arise when new experiments or observations contradict previously accepted symmetries in the laws of physics, leading scientists to reconsider and potentially revise existing theories.

3. Can the symmetry of laws of physics be disproven?

No, the symmetry of laws of physics is a fundamental principle that has been repeatedly validated through experiments and observations. However, scientists are always open to challenging and refining existing theories in order to better understand the natural world.

4. What would be the implications if the symmetry of laws of physics is found to be incorrect?

If the symmetry of laws of physics is found to be incorrect, it would require a major paradigm shift in our understanding of the universe and could potentially lead to the development of new theories and models to explain previously unexplained phenomena.

5. How do scientists test the symmetry of laws of physics?

Scientists test the symmetry of laws of physics through experiments and observations, looking for any discrepancies or violations of the symmetries predicted by existing theories. They also use mathematical models and simulations to explore the implications of different symmetries and their effects on physical systems.

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