Exploring Mass After the Big Bang

In summary, the conversation discusses the development of matter after the big bang and how it became more complex and massive as the universe cooled. The question is posed about the mass of the universe at or shortly after creation, and the potential limitations of our understanding of that time period. A link to a forum post discussing the total mass-energy of the universe and the role of general relativity in cosmology is also mentioned in the conversation.
  • #1
nearc
Gold Member
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I've been looking for more information about the state of matter [or soon to be matter] shortly after the big bang. As time progressed after the big bang matter started to develop and it became more and more complex and massive [for the most part], we had quarks then protons then neutrons then atoms, etc... obviously this is an simplified history but the pattern is that as the universe cooled matter, for the most part, became more massive. So working backwards what can we say about the mass of the stuff right at or right after the big bang? I know that we don't know much about that time as our physics does really work well at that time, but can we say anything about the mass of the universe right at creation?
 
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  • #2
Are you asking about the state of matter, or the amount of matter? If it's the amount:

FAQ: How does conservation of energy work in general relativity, and how does this apply to cosmology? What is the total mass-energy of the universe?

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=506985
 
  • #3
When the universe became transparent after around 300,000 years I was told here that the entire universe looked like a diffuse, orange hydrogen gas.
 
  • #4
Tanelorn said:
When the universe became transparent after around 300,000 years I was told here that the entire universe looked like a diffuse, orange hydrogen gas.

Yeah, but he's asking about almost immediately after the BB. MANY orders of magnitude fewer time units than 300,000 years
 
  • #5
Sorry. I was interpreting after the BB as meaning after inflation.
 

1. What is the Big Bang theory and how does it relate to mass exploration?

The Big Bang theory is a widely accepted scientific explanation for the beginning of the universe. It states that the universe began as a singularity, an infinitely small and dense point, which expanded rapidly and continues to expand. Mass exploration is closely related to the Big Bang theory because it allows us to study and understand the formation and evolution of the universe after the Big Bang.

2. How do scientists explore mass after the Big Bang?

Scientists use a variety of methods to explore mass after the Big Bang, including observations from telescopes, particle accelerators, and computer simulations. By studying the cosmic microwave background radiation, which is the leftover radiation from the Big Bang, and observing the movements and interactions of particles, scientists can gain insight into the distribution and behavior of mass in the early universe.

3. What is dark matter and how does it play a role in mass exploration?

Dark matter is a mysterious type of matter that does not emit or absorb light, making it invisible to traditional telescopes. However, its presence can be inferred through its gravitational effects on visible matter. Dark matter is thought to make up about 85% of the total mass in the universe, and its study is crucial in understanding the formation and structure of the universe.

4. Why is it important to explore mass after the Big Bang?

Exploring mass after the Big Bang allows us to gain a deeper understanding of the origins and evolution of the universe. It also helps us to test and refine theories, such as the Big Bang theory, and to uncover new insights into the fundamental laws of physics. Additionally, studying mass in the early universe can provide insights into the formation of galaxies, stars, and other structures in the universe.

5. What are some potential implications of mass exploration after the Big Bang?

Mass exploration after the Big Bang has the potential to answer longstanding questions about the universe, such as the nature of dark matter and the ultimate fate of the universe. It could also lead to new discoveries and technologies that could impact our understanding of the world and our daily lives. Additionally, further exploration of mass could have significant implications for space travel and the possibility of finding other habitable planets in the universe.

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