Could dark energy simply be gravitational field energy?

In summary, the conversation suggests that dark energy could potentially be explained as the potential energy of the gravitational field of the Universe. This is supported by the equation relating the Hubble constant, total matter density, and Hubble radius, as well as the calculation of the gravitational potential energy of the Universe. However, further research and evidence is needed to fully support this hypothesis and other theories and explanations for dark energy should also be considered.
  • #1
johne1618
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Could dark energy simply be gravitational field energy?

If we assume that the Universe is always spatially flat then we have the equation:

H(t)^2 = 8 Pi G rho(t) / 3

where H(t) and rho(t) are the Hubble constant and total matter density at time t.

Now we have the equation

c = H(t) R(t)

where R(t) is the Hubble radius which defines the radius of the observable Universe at time t.

If we assume that the observable Universe is a sphere of radius R we can substitute the second equation into the first to find the relation:

G M(t) / R(t) = c^2 / 2

where M(t) is the mass of the Universe at time t.

Now the gravitational potential energy of a sphere of mass M is:

PE = - 3 G M^2 / 5R

Therefore using the relation GM/R=c^2/2 we find

PE = - 3 * M * c^2 / 10

Therefore the mass due to the Universe's potential energy is:

- 3 M / 10

This is of the same order of magnitude as the mass of the Universe itself, M.
This agrees with the current consensus that dark energy density is of the same order of magnitude as the matter density.
 
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  • #2
Therefore, it is possible that dark energy could be explained as the potential energy of the gravitational field of the Universe. However, more research and evidence is needed to fully support this hypothesis. It is also important to consider other theories and explanations for dark energy, as the nature of this mysterious force is still not fully understood.
 

1. What is dark energy?

Dark energy is a hypothetical form of energy that is thought to make up about 70% of the universe. It is believed to be responsible for the accelerating expansion of the universe.

2. How is dark energy related to gravitational field energy?

Some scientists have proposed that dark energy is simply a manifestation of gravitational field energy. This means that the gravitational field itself could be causing the expansion of the universe.

3. What evidence supports the idea that dark energy is gravitational field energy?

Currently, there is no conclusive evidence that dark energy is solely gravitational field energy. This is still a topic of debate in the scientific community and more research and evidence is needed to support this idea.

4. How does the concept of dark energy impact our understanding of the universe?

If dark energy is indeed just gravitational field energy, it would change our understanding of the universe and the forces that govern it. It could also have implications for our current theories and models of the universe.

5. How are scientists studying and researching dark energy?

Scientists are using various methods to study and research dark energy, such as observing the expansion of the universe, studying the cosmic microwave background radiation, and conducting experiments with particle accelerators. They are also developing new theories and models to better understand this mysterious form of energy.

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