What Is "Rick and Morty" Anyway?

For those who haven't dived into this animated sci-fi adventure, "Rick and Morty" follows the interdimensional exploits of alcoholic super-scientist Rick Sanchez and his nervous grandson Morty. Created by Dan Harmon and Justin Roiland, the show has gained massive popularity for its blend of dark humor, scientific concepts, and multiverse theory.

One of the show's core concepts is the existence of infinite universes with infinite possibilities—where each Rick and Morty comes from a designated universe. Our main character is specifically known as "Rick C-137," distinguishing him from countless other Ricks across the multiverse.

The C-137 Connection

But why C-137 specifically? The show never explicitly explains the numbering system, but looking at physics might give us an intriguing possibility.

Enter the Fine-Structure Constant

The fine-structure constant, often represented by the Greek letter alpha (α), is one of physics' most mysterious and fundamental numbers. First introduced by physicist Arnold Sommerfeld in 1916, it determines the strength of the electromagnetic interaction between elementary charged particles.

Here's where things get interesting: The inverse value of the fine-structure constant is approximately 137.036.

Sound familiar? C-137!

Why Is This Significant?

The fine-structure constant is no ordinary number—it's considered one of the most important constants in physics:

1. It's dimensionless - Unlike other physical constants, it has no units, making it a pure number

2. It's fundamental - It appears across numerous physics equations

3. It's mysterious - Scientists still debate why it has the exact value it does

Richard Feynman, one of history's greatest physicists, called it "one of the greatest damn mysteries of physics: a magic number that comes to us with no understanding."

How the Fine-Structure Constant Could Explain Rick's Multiverse

Multiverse Navigation

In "Rick and Morty," Rick uses his portal gun to travel between dimensions. The fine-structure constant is crucial in determining how light and matter interact—precisely what would be needed for interdimensional travel technology. If the multiverse exists, different universes might have slightly different values for fundamental constants.

The "Central Finite Curve"

Rick mentions something called the "Central Finite Curve"—a curated selection of universes where Rick is the smartest person alive. These universes might share specific physical properties, including a fine-structure constant of exactly 1/137, making them ideal for Rick's portal technology.

Why C-137 Is Special

Perhaps Universe C-137 is where the fine-structure constant is exactly 1/137.000 (rather than 1/137.036 as in our universe). This tiny difference might create optimal conditions for Rick's scientific breakthroughs or portal gun technology.

What It Actually Measures

The fine-structure constant (α) determines how strongly electrons and photons interact. It combines several fundamental constants:

• The elementary charge (e)

• Planck's constant (h)

• The speed of light (c)

In formula form: α = e²/ħc

In everyday terms, it helps explain:

• Why atoms are stable

• How light interacts with matter

• The "fine structure" of spectral lines from hydrogen atoms

The Golden Ratio Connection

Interestingly, some physicists have noticed relationships between the fine-structure constant and the golden ratio (φ), a special number approximately equal to 1.618 that appears throughout nature and art.

Why This Matters for "Rick and Morty" Fans

Understanding this possible connection adds a new layer to appreciating the show:

1. Scientific Easter Egg - The creators of "Rick and Morty" are known for including accurate scientific concepts

2. Character Depth - It suggests Rick understands physics at a fundamental level beyond our current science

3. Plot Implications - Future episodes might explore how Rick manipulates fundamental constants

Want to Learn More?

If the connection between physics and "Rick and Morty" fascinates you, here are some ways to explore further:

• Watch episodes focusing on Rick's portal technology (like "Rick Potion #9" or "The Rickshank Redemption")

• Read about multiverse theory in physics

• Explore the works of physicists who studied the fine-structure constant like Wolfgang Pauli and Richard Feynman