What question did this study set out to answer?

This paper aims to identify and evaluate hidden numerical choices within physics experiments that impact physical conclusions.

July 26, 2026Open Access

Hidden Numerical Foundations in Physics: A Provenance Audit for Laboratory Timing, Normalization, and Model-Dependent Constants

View Full Paper

Ask AI

Bookmark

Authors

Randomized trial investigates numerical foundations in physics, highlighting implications for experimental accuracy.

This paper aims to identify and evaluate hidden numerical choices within physics experiments that impact physical conclusions.
Introduces a Numerical Provenance Audit and a Timing Foundation Audit.
Classifies numerical selectors into categories such as derived, measured, calibrated, fitted, and unresolved.
Applies audits to an entropy-relaxation experiment involving plastically deformed amorphous solids.
Identified a quarter-cycle analysis window affecting results.
Found a fitted relaxation-to-structure delay of approximately 0.3 times the relaxation time with associated uncertainties.
Characterized the influence of numerical entropy cutoff and sample-specific scaling slopes on experimental findings.

Matthew Hall (2026) studied this question.

View Full Paper

Ask AI

Bookmark