Proof of Universe Expansion

In summary, the equations of General Relativity, specifically the Friedman equations, suggest that the universe is expanding or contracting. However, it is not possible to definitively prove this as there is also a static solution to the equations. Observations, however, strongly support the idea of an expanding universe.
  • #1
bchui
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Where can we find the prove of universe expansion from the equations of General Relativity?
 
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  • #2
bchui said:
Where can we find the prove of universe expansion from the equations of General Relativity?

First you need to make some assumptions - that the universe is homogeneous and isotropic.

Then the solution of Einstein's equations is a FRW metric, see for instance http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Friedmann-Lemaître-Robertson-Walker_metric

The expansion or contraction is governed by Friedman's equations

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Friedmann_equations


If you add a cosmological constant to these equations, there is a static solution (the Einstein static universe), but it is unstable, and also requires some very special parameter values.

So you can't quite "prove" that the universe must be expanding or contracting (as there is the static Einstein solution), but it would require a lot of coincidences to have this happen if GR is correct.

Of course, observation strongly suggests that the universe is expanding.
 
  • #3


The proof of universe expansion can be found in the equations of General Relativity through observations of the cosmic microwave background radiation (CMB) and the redshift of distant galaxies.

The CMB is a faint glow of radiation that permeates the entire universe and is believed to be leftover from the Big Bang. By studying the characteristics of the CMB, such as its temperature and distribution, scientists have been able to confirm the expansion of the universe.

Additionally, the redshift of distant galaxies is another key piece of evidence for universe expansion. This phenomenon occurs when light from an object is stretched as it travels through expanding space, causing it to appear more redshifted. By measuring the redshift of distant galaxies, scientists have been able to calculate the rate of expansion of the universe.

Furthermore, the equations of General Relativity, specifically the Friedmann equations, provide a mathematical framework for understanding the expansion of the universe. These equations describe the evolution of the universe over time, including its expansion.

In summary, the proof of universe expansion can be found in the observations of the CMB and the redshift of distant galaxies, as well as in the equations of General Relativity. Together, these pieces of evidence provide strong support for the concept of an expanding universe.
 

1. How do we know that the universe is expanding?

The universe is expanding at an accelerating rate, and this has been observed through multiple lines of evidence. One of the most significant pieces of evidence is the observation of redshift in light from distant galaxies, which indicates that they are moving away from us. Additionally, the cosmic microwave background radiation, which is leftover radiation from the Big Bang, also provides evidence for the expansion of the universe.

2. What is the evidence for the Big Bang theory and how does it relate to the expansion of the universe?

The Big Bang theory is the most widely accepted explanation for the origin of the universe. It states that the universe began as a singularity and has been expanding ever since. The evidence for this theory includes the cosmic microwave background radiation, the abundance of helium and hydrogen in the universe, and the observation of the redshift of distant galaxies. The expansion of the universe is a key component of the Big Bang theory, as it explains the observed redshift and the overall structure and evolution of the universe.

3. How does the expansion of the universe affect the motion of celestial bodies?

The expansion of the universe does not directly affect the motion of celestial bodies within a galaxy or solar system. However, on a larger scale, the expansion of the universe does impact the motion of galaxies and galaxy clusters. As the universe expands, it creates a force that pulls objects away from each other, causing galaxies to move further apart over time.

4. What is dark energy and how does it contribute to the expansion of the universe?

Dark energy is a theoretical form of energy that is believed to make up about 70% of the total energy in the universe. Its existence is inferred from observations of the accelerating expansion of the universe. It is thought to be responsible for the acceleration of the expansion, as it works against the force of gravity and pushes objects further apart.

5. Will the expansion of the universe ever stop?

Based on current observations, it is believed that the expansion of the universe will continue indefinitely. However, this is still a topic of ongoing research and debate. Some theories suggest that the expansion may eventually slow down or reverse due to the effects of dark energy and the distribution of matter in the universe. Further observational data and research will be needed to better understand the ultimate fate of the universe's expansion.

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