TeXes Science Practice Test

Why can't exponential growth, such as described by Moore's Law, be maintained indefinitely?

1. Because of market saturation

2. Due to ideological opposition

3. Because of physical constraints

4. Due to technological breakthroughs

The correct answer is: Because of physical constraints

Exponential growth, as illustrated by Moore’s Law, suggests that the number of transistors on a microchip doubles approximately every two years, which has driven rapid advancements in computing power. However, this growth cannot be sustained indefinitely due to physical constraints. These constraints include limitations related to the materials used in semiconductor manufacturing, as well as the fundamental principles of physics. For instance, as components get smaller, they reach a point where quantum effects begin to dominate, which can lead to unreliable operation of the devices. Additionally, the physical size limits of silicon-based technology impose restrictions on how much further miniaturization can go before encountering significant thermal and electrical issues. Market saturation typically refers to the point where a product has reached its peak sales potential, while ideological opposition signifies resistance based on beliefs or values, neither of which directly impacts the core physical principles governing technological constraints. Technological breakthroughs may allow for temporary remedies or new directions in development, but they ultimately do not eliminate the inherent physical limitations that govern exponential growth.