About Hubble Radius (Radius of the Hubble sphere)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of the Hubble Radius, also known as the radius of the Hubble sphere, including its definitions, implications, and how it relates to observers in cosmological contexts. The scope includes theoretical definitions and interpretations of the Hubble sphere in relation to cosmological expansion and observational perspectives.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant defines the Hubble radius as the distance from a fixed point to an object moving with cosmological expansion at the speed of light, questioning the validity of this definition since it depends on the moving object.
  • Another participant suggests that each observer defines a different Hubble sphere based on their chosen origin point.
  • It is noted that distant observers perceive the Hubble bubble as smaller due to the limitations of light speed and the time it takes for light to travel.
  • A participant challenges the notion of the 'Hubble Bubble' having a visual aspect, arguing that it is a theoretical construct rather than a physical entity.
  • Another definition of the Hubble sphere is presented, relating it to the distance light can travel within the Hubble time, with a connection made to the particle horizon from the dust era onward.
  • A participant expresses clarity on the topic after receiving input from others.
  • One participant asserts that the Hubble Bubble appears the same to all observers, but its perceived size is affected by the age of the universe when the light was emitted.
  • It is mentioned that the Hubble sphere is much closer than the particle horizon, with specific distances provided for both, measured at the current time.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of the Hubble sphere and its implications for observers, indicating that multiple competing interpretations remain. The discussion does not reach a consensus on the definitions or implications of the Hubble radius.

Contextual Notes

Some definitions and interpretations depend on specific assumptions about the observer's frame of reference and the nature of cosmological expansion. The relationship between the Hubble sphere and the particle horizon is also noted to be context-dependent.

Ricky2357
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I found the following definition for the Hubble Radius:

The radius of the Hubble sphere (Hubble radius) is defined to be the distance from a fixed point O (center of coordinate system) of an object moving with the cosmological expansion at the speed of light (with respect to O).

Mathematically, R=c(a/da) , c=speed of light , a=a(t) is the scale factor ,t is time.

How's this definition valid since the Hubble radius as defined depends on the moving object?
 
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It means that each observer (each origin O you choose to define) has a different 'Hubble sphere'.
 
True, but, they are time limited. The Hubble bubble looks smaller to distant observers [speed of light thing].
 
I'm not sure what you mean Chronos, the 'Hubble Bubble' doesn't 'look' like anything since it's just a theoretical construct, a useful term in distance measures, rather than a physical structure. I'm not sure what you are saying looks different to distant observers (or who they are distant from?) ?
 
I found out that the Hubble sphere can also be defined as the sphere of center 0 (observer) and radius the distance that light can travel within the characteristic expansion time, that is the Hubble time : τ=1/H(t).
So R=c*τ. From the moment we entered the dust era, the Hubble sphere is the same as the particle horizon.
 
Last edited:
But what is your question?
 
Nothing, I believe it is clear now. Thanks for the help!
 
Looks like everyone skipped out Wallace! My intent was merely to point out the Hubble Bubble looks the same to all observers. It looks 'smaller' to distant observers because the universe was younger when 'they' sent us the picture we just received.
 
Ricky2357 said:
From the moment we entered the dust era, the Hubble sphere is the same as the particle horizon.
The Hubble sphere is much closer than the particle horizon. The Hubble sphere has a radius of about 13,700 Mly and the particle horizon is located at about 45,000 Mly. Both distances measured on the hypersurface of current time.
 

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