Amount of kinetic energy in universe

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the sources and calculations of kinetic energy in the universe, exploring both astronomical and atomic scales. Participants consider the complexities involved in quantifying this energy and the factors that contribute to its existence.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant calculates the kinetic energy of the Milky Way moving toward the Virgo cluster and compares it to the kinetic energy of electrons around a nucleus, questioning the source of this energy.
  • Another participant expresses skepticism about the ability to calculate the total kinetic energy in the universe due to its dynamic nature and the influence of other energy types.
  • A different participant suggests that the source of kinetic energy is complex and likens it to the question of the source of gravity, implying that it is an inherent aspect of the universe.
  • One participant asks for clarification on the term "frame," indicating a potential focus on reference frames in physics.
  • Another participant proposes that much of the kinetic energy in the universe originates from gravitational forces acting on unevenly distributed matter.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the source and calculation of kinetic energy, with no consensus reached on these points. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the complexities and definitions involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge the challenges in calculating kinetic energy due to its dependence on various factors, including gravitational and thermal energies, and the dynamic nature of the universe.

jimjohnson
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What is the source of kinetic energy? Take two calculation that result in a lot of energy. First, if the Milky Way is moving toward the Virgo cluster at 600km/ sec, it has a kinetic energy of 4 e59 ergs. Second, take an electron "rotating" around a nucleus with a ionization energy of 15eV and then multiply by the number of electrons ,e79, for e68 ergs. There are many objects moving and spinning all with significant energy. Here does it come from?
 
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God knows.
 
It would be very hard to calculate all the Kinetic energy in the universe due to the fact it always changing with other energies (gravitational, thermal etc). What is the source of kinetic energy? = Complex question, like saying what is the source of Gravity. Dunno its just kinda there :rolleyes: :eek: :confused: :zzz:
 
What frame do you want to calculate this in?
 
What does "frame" mean?
I think most of the kinetic energy in the universe was caused by gravity acting on matter that was unevenly distributed.
 

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