
Ron Forth’s vision for modern cosmology
Retired mechanical engineer and longtime Chestermere resident, Ron Forth, has always been fascinated by the mysteries of the universe. In his newly published book, The Forth Dimension, Forth offers readers an innovative perspective on physics and cosmology, challenging conventional theories while introducing fresh ideas about the workings of the universe. From the nature of gravity and black holes to the evolution of the speed of light, his book invites readers to think beyond the boundaries of traditional science.
For Forth, the journey began long before retirement. His interest in science dates back to his school days, when even a simple question about dissolving sugar sparked his curiosity about energy and physics. This thirst for knowledge followed him into his career in Calgary’s oil and gas industry, where he honed his analytical skills.
“I didn’t always agree with the textbook answers,” Forth admits. “But it taught me to think critically about problems.”
In conventional physics, we typically think of four dimensions: three spatial dimensions (X, Y, Z) and time. However, in my perspective, the fourth dimension isn’t time but energy. Imagine this: energy is like an additional coordinate in space. For example, in this room, the energy level varies depending on the location. By the windows, it’s colder—there’s less energy. Near the coffee maker, it’s warmer—there’s more energy. So, while you can specify a location using X, Y, and Z, you could also measure the energy there as an additional coordinate. This makes energy the fourth dimension in this framework—it’s just a different way of looking at things.
“Time, on the other hand, is highly subjective. It changes depending on factors like speed and position relative to a gravitational field,” said Forth.
Central to his work is the idea that the laws of physics, such as gravity and the speed of light, might not be constants but variables that have evolved over time. “Gravity might have been stronger in the early universe, and the speed of light faster,” Forth explains. “These shifts solve many issues that current theories struggle to address.”
Forth also aims to make his theories accessible to a wide audience. “There’s a lot of math in the book, but it’s nothing beyond high school level,” he says. To make the concepts even clearer, his daughter Veronica contributed illustrations that visually bring the theories to life. Forth is quick to credit her: “She used her graphic arts skills to create visuals that complement and clarify the text.”
While The Forth Dimension delves into complex topics, it remains approachable and engaging. Forth combines humour with practical examples to ensure readers stay intrigued. “I want professionals and enthusiasts alike to read this book and consider the ideas presented. Ideas are the feedstock of science, and there’s plenty to chew on in these pages,” he says.
“Everything in there can be tested. It’s very grounded in science and math. There’s a chapter in there called the Pioneer Anomaly, so if somebody like NASA wanted to verify it, they will have all the data they need,” said Forth.
The book is available in hardcover, softcover and Kindle formats on Amazon, as well as multiple other websites. It has already been entered into the Writer’s Guild of Alberta competition, with winners to be announced in March 2025.
“Every aspiring writer dreams of creating something lasting—a classic, a great novel, or a wise technical dissertation. I wanted to do that too, but you’ll have to contend with this book instead,” he jokes.
To learn more about the book and purchase a copy, visit www.theforthdimension.ca.
