Get Physics Help: Big Bang Explained

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the nature of the Big Bang, specifically addressing whether it occurred in a single location or throughout the entire universe. Participants explore the implications of these ideas within the context of cosmological theories and misconceptions about the Big Bang.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the common understanding of the Big Bang, suggesting it may not have happened in one place.
  • Another participant asserts that the Big Bang occurred at every point in the universe, as all points were part of the original singularity.
  • A different viewpoint emphasizes that the Big Bang should not be viewed as an explosion into space, but rather as the rapid expansion of space itself.
  • Some participants mention speculative theories about other Big Bangs occurring outside our universe.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of the Big Bang, with no consensus reached on whether it occurred in one location or throughout the universe.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights a key misconception about the Big Bang theory, particularly regarding the concept of space and expansion, but does not resolve the underlying questions or assumptions.

jfh_dragonfly
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This is going to sound like a really stupid question, and I hope the atmosphere here isn’t so rarified that it will bother anyone, but if it does, I apologize in advance.

I heard recently that the Big Bang didn’t happen all in one place. If that’s true, my universe-view has been skewed. Can anyone explain?

Thanks!
- Dragonfly
 
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The big bang, as we know it, happened in one place, which was the entire universe at that time. There are theories which talk about other big bangs, outside our universe, but this is purely speculative.
 
Yes another way of putting it is to say that the Big Bang happened at every place as every place was just one place in the original 'singularity'.

Garth
 
Welcome to Physics Forums, jfh_dragonfly!
Questions from beginners or experts are welcome here!

You've hit on a key misconception of Big Bang theory. It was not an explosion of stuff into empty space. It was the rapid expansion of all space. See also my recent description here...
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=52659
 

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