Big Bang Singularity: What Prevents Universe from Becoming Black Hole?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the question of why the universe did not collapse into a black hole at the moment of the Big Bang, exploring concepts related to density, gravity, and the nature of the universe's expansion. Participants touch on theoretical models, including quantum cosmology and the Inflationary Model, as well as speculative ideas about the universe's origins.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that the extreme density and gravity at the Big Bang should have led to a black hole, questioning what prevented this outcome.
  • Others argue that the universe did not behave like a black hole, suggesting that general relativity alone fails to explain the situation and that the Inflationary Model addresses this issue.
  • One participant mentions that black holes are detected through their gravitational effects on surrounding stars, challenging the idea that they are only "invisible" due to light not escaping.
  • Another viewpoint suggests that all universes could be black holes, with varying lifespans, and speculates on the nature of density in different universes.
  • A later reply emphasizes the importance of quantum cosmology, stating that classical general relativity is insufficient and that quantum models predict a bounce rather than black hole formation.
  • Some participants express uncertainty about the separation of fundamental forces and its implications for the universe's early conditions, questioning the explanations provided by others.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views, with no consensus on the reasons behind the universe's behavior at the Big Bang. Disagreements exist regarding the interpretations of black holes, the adequacy of classical general relativity, and the implications of quantum cosmology.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the reliance on various theoretical models, the breakdown of classical general relativity at the beginning of expansion, and the speculative nature of some contributions regarding the universe's origins and structure.

  • #31
Alex48674 said:
I thought that mechanism was a supercooled higg's field causing a negative pressure. Is this wrong, or do you mean what caused it to supercool?

I think that is just one of many proposed mechanisms. There is a long way to go before we have a coherent theory of inflation with all the details worked out.
 
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  • #32
Wallace said:
I think that is just one of many proposed mechanisms. There is a long way to go before we have a coherent theory of inflation with all the details worked out.

Ohh alright, so what are some of the other bigs ones to look into? And how mainstream is the one I mentioned in comparison?
 
  • #33
Not sure. Too be honest I haven't heard of that idea. Where did you hear it from?

There are too many theories of inflation, or some process that isn't inflation but solves the same problems, to list. Some extend the standard model of particle physics (which the Higgs idea you refer to would be an example of) while some suggest new mechanisms entirely. This is a very dynamic field, not completely unconstrained by data, but none the less with plenty of freedom for new ideas that have the same effects as other ideas but with a vastly different cause.
 

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