InfoCoBuild

String Theory

In physics, string theory is a theoretical framework in which the point-like particles of particle physics are replaced by one-dimensional objects called strings. In string theory, the different types of observed elementary particles arise from the different quantum states of these strings. In addition to the types of particles postulated by the standard model of particle physics, string theory naturally incorporates gravity, and is therefore a candidate for a theory of everything, a self-contained mathematical model that describes all fundamental forces and forms of matter. Aside from this hypothesized role in particle physics, string theory is now widely used as a theoretical tool in physics, and it has shed light on many aspects of quantum field theory and quantum gravity.
(from wikipedia.org)

The Elegant Universe is a PBS science documentary series, which story is based on the book The Elegant Universe by Brian Greene. It introduces string theory and consists of three episodes: Einstein's Dream; Strings The Thing; and Welcome To The 11th Dimension.

Episode 1 Episode 2 Episode 3

Episode 1 - Einstein's Dream
This episode introduces string theory and shows that Einstein's goal of combining the physical laws of the universe in one theory that explains it all is the Holy Grail of modern physics.

Episode 2 - String's the Thing
This episode explores the idea that string theory requires a universe with more than four space-time dimensions and how string theory resolves the conflict between general relativity and quantum mechanics.

Episode 3 - Welcome to the 11th Dimension
This episode introduces M-theory that calls for a universe with 11 space-time dimensions and explains how the additional dimension of M-theory allows a string to stretch out into a membrane-like form that could exist in multiple dimensions.