Netflix's New Series 3 Body Problem Takes Its Name From An Unsolvable Physics Problem

Netflix's 3 Body Problem is an exciting series for die-hard sci-fi fans. While the series is adapted from a book, there is actually a physics problem called the three-body problem too. So what is the meaning of 3 Body Problem's title? Here's what we know.

Spoiler Warning: This article includes spoilers for 3 Body Problem, so proceed with caution.

What Is The Physics Problem Related to 3 Body Problem?

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There is a physics problem called the three-body problem that also applies to classical mechanics. This refers to the initial positions and velocities of three-point masses and coming up with their subsequent motion.

It is based on two of Newton's laws: universal gravitation and motion. The first ever three-body problem in history that was extensively studied by scientists were the Moon, Earth, and the Sun.

Basically, a three-body problem has to do with the motion of three particles involved in classical mechanics or quantum mechanics.

Here's a TED Talk video explaining Newton's three-body problem:

3 Body Problem Title: What Does It Have to Do With the Physics Problem?

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So why was Liu Cixin's Chinese sci-fi novel entitled The Three-Body Problem and what does it have to do with the physics problem?

One Reddit user has explained the context of the book's title to the physics problem.

The novel basically challenges conventional sci-fi concepts with deeper philosophical themes.

It also gives the reader a look into their minds and how they can build worlds and live among the stars. The title helps bridge the gap between things that people know and what they know nothing about.

RELATED: What Do the 3 Body Problem Aliens Look Like?

What is 3 Body Problem Series About?

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Adapted into a Netflix series, 3 Body Problem is about humanity's first contact with aliens. The aliens, however, are a hostile breed and want to overtake the Earth.

Before they left their planet, Trisolaris, the aliens went through periods of chaos. This is why they left their planet and looked for another one they could invade.

It plays an important role in the context of the show's title and the physics problem.

You can check out the trailer of 3 Body Problem here.

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