How Small Could the Universe Get in a Big Crunch?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of a "big crunch," a theoretical scenario where the universe, after expanding, contracts back to a singular point. This contraction's size is posited to be incredibly small, potentially smaller than an atom, influenced by the universe's matter and energy content. The paper referenced explores the dynamics of a 3-dimensional universe transitioning to a 2-dimensional state, known as "dimensional reduction," particularly as it approaches a big crunch. This transition challenges existing understandings of space and time, offering a new perspective on the universe's evolution.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the "big crunch" theory in cosmology
  • Familiarity with dimensional reduction concepts in theoretical physics
  • Knowledge of the Milne universe model
  • Basic principles of general relativity
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Milne universe and its implications in cosmology
  • Study dimensional reduction in theoretical physics
  • Examine the dynamics of the big crunch scenario
  • Explore the relationship between matter-energy density and cosmic expansion
USEFUL FOR

Cosmologists, theoretical physicists, and anyone interested in the fundamental nature of the universe and its potential end scenarios.

Olias
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Interesting dynamical overview of 3-D >>2-D Ttransitions.

http://arxiv.org/PS_cache/hep-th/pdf/0408/0408220.pdf
 
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I could ask Russo, given that he lives in my city, but I will save the phone call and will ask here: I'm a bit familiar with the Milne universe, actually not mainstream because cosmologists prefere general relativity, but never heard of this thing that he calls the Milne horizon. What's this?
 


The concept of a "big crunch" refers to a hypothetical scenario in which the universe, which is currently expanding, eventually stops expanding and begins to contract back towards a central point. This contraction would continue until all matter and energy in the universe is compressed into a single point, resulting in a "big crunch."

The size of a big crunch is difficult to determine because it depends on various factors, such as the amount of matter and energy in the universe and the rate of expansion. However, according to current theories, the size of a big crunch would be incredibly small, perhaps even smaller than an atom.

In the paper provided, the author discusses the interesting dynamics of a 3-dimensional universe transitioning to a 2-dimensional universe. This type of transition is known as a "dimensional reduction" and is a topic of interest in theoretical physics.

The author suggests that this transition may occur as the universe approaches a big crunch, where the extra dimensions of space become compactified and the universe becomes effectively 2-dimensional. This is an intriguing concept, as it challenges our understanding of the fundamental nature of space and time.

Overall, the idea of a big crunch and the potential for a dimensional reduction provides a fascinating perspective on the evolution of the universe. While the exact size of a big crunch may be difficult to determine, the concept itself raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of our universe.
 

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