Can Cosmic Inflation Explain the Accelerating Universe?

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of cosmic inflation being responsible for the accelerating expansion of the universe, but also points out flaws in the theory such as discrepancies with observed energy levels and the existence of an unknown particle called an "inflaton." Other potential explanations include dark energy and superstring theory. However, the conversation concludes that, like the ancient Greeks, we still do not have a complete understanding of the universe and it may take many more years to fully answer these questions.
  • #1
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If the hot Big-Bang model is accurate (and seems like it is), could cosmic inflation (maybe a further extension) explain why the universe is accelerating or will we have to retreat to extra-dimensions (superstring theory and leaking gravity)?

There are other problems with this theory of course (as in most others). E.g, the present universe has much lower energy than cosmic inflation predicts. Also the theory predicts an unknown particle called ''inflaton''. Does it have anything to do with proton decay (which is not consistent with experiments)?

So the best candidates are:

1. Dark energy
2. Superstring theory (extra-dimensions and leaking gravity)
3. Cosmic inflation (which also predicts the inflaton scalar field)

2000 years ago the Greeks asked what the universe is made of. Seems like today we are not much different from them. We are now the ancients and it will probably take us another 2000 years (if not more) to fully anwer their question.

Edit: See also Introductory review of cosmic inflation
 
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  • #2
So, do you think you have a better answer than the 'mainstream' solution?
 
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  • #3
True, i don't. Today, no one on Earth is smart enough to offer a better answer to this kind of questions.
 

1. What is cosmic inflation and how does it relate to inflatons?

Cosmic inflation is a theoretical period in the early universe where it underwent rapid and exponential expansion. Inflatons are hypothetical particles that are thought to be responsible for driving this expansion. They are a key component of the theory of cosmic inflation.

2. How did the idea of cosmic inflation and inflatons come about?

The idea of cosmic inflation was first proposed in the 1980s by physicist Alan Guth to explain certain problems with the Big Bang theory. Inflatons were proposed as a mechanism to drive this inflation and were inspired by the Higgs field in particle physics.

3. What evidence do we have for cosmic inflation and inflatons?

There is strong evidence for cosmic inflation in the form of the cosmic microwave background radiation, which is a remnant of the early universe. Additionally, observations of the distribution of matter in the universe and the large-scale structure support the idea of inflation. However, direct evidence for inflatons is still being researched.

4. How do inflatons differ from other types of particles?

Inflatons are different from other particles in that they are scalar particles, meaning they have no spin. They also have unique properties that allow them to drive the rapid expansion of the universe during cosmic inflation.

5. What are the implications of cosmic inflation and inflatons for our understanding of the universe?

If cosmic inflation and inflatons are proven to be true, it would greatly impact our understanding of the early universe and the fundamental laws of physics. It could also provide insight into the origin of the universe and the nature of space and time. However, further research and evidence is needed to solidify these theories.

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