Are the Universe and Observable Universe Identical?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the relationship between the entire universe and the observable universe, questioning whether they are identical or if the observable universe is merely a small portion of a much larger entity. Participants explore the implications of empirical evidence, the nature of observations, and the limitations of current models in cosmology.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants argue that the universe outside the observable universe is, by definition, unobservable, raising questions about the existence of empirical evidence for its characteristics.
  • One participant states that unless the universe is finite and small, there will never be definitive evidence that the observable universe represents the entirety of the universe.
  • Several contributions emphasize that while predictions can be made based on current theories, there is no way to verify their correctness regarding unobservable regions.
  • Concerns are raised about the implications of observations for determining whether the universe is open or closed, particularly in the context of time approaching infinity.
  • Participants discuss the role of models in cosmology, noting that the standard model assumes homogeneity and isotropy, but does not specify how far these properties extend beyond the observable universe.
  • Clarifications are made regarding the definition of the observable universe, distinguishing between what is directly observable and what is theoretically possible to observe.
  • Questions are posed about the large-scale structure of the universe and whether observers at the edge of the observable universe would see similar patterns to those observed within it.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express multiple competing views regarding the nature of the observable universe and its relationship to the entire universe. There is no consensus on whether empirical evidence can confirm their identity or the implications of observations for understanding the universe as a whole.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the dependence on definitions of observability, the untestable nature of certain predictions, and the unresolved status of various mathematical and theoretical aspects of cosmology.

  • #31
Then they should understand that on PHYSICSforums "Universe" has a precise meaning and they should use this word with that meaning.
 
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  • #32
I don't think even all cosmologists would agree with you. In particular, for those working with either multiverses or quantum-foam bubbles (followed by inflation), they seem to find it helpful to distinguish "everything" from "everything that shares our BB", with the latter being the "universe" and the former being "other universes" that do not, or have not so far, interacted with ours.

Not my usage, but I understand why they might find it useful.
 
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  • #33
JMz said:
I don't think even all cosmologists would agree with you. In particular, for those working with either multiverses or quantum-foam bubbles (followed by inflation), they seem to find it helpful to distinguish "everything" from "everything that shares our BB", with the latter being the "universe" and the former being "other universes" that do not, or have not so far, interacted with ours.

Not my usage, but I understand why they might find it useful.
Thus we may re-ask the initial question(s) within the Standard Model of Cosmology ...
Some answers will still hold, some will not ...
 

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