Is dark energy actually zero-point energy?

In summary, Kaku discusses the discrepancy between the calculated value of dark energy from the latest theory of subatomic particles and the experimentally measured rate of expansion of the universe. The calculation is based on the zero point energy of particle fields and the experimental evidence comes from surveys of supernovae. To reconcile this discrepancy, researchers have proposed a phase cutoff point for the gravitational effects of the vacuum field, suggesting that dark energy is actually just a component of zero-point energy. Recent work by Christian Beck and Michael Mackey offers a potential solution to the 10 to the 120 power problem of dark energy.
  • #1
jimjohnson
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Quoting Kaku in Parallel Worlds (page 12), " If we take the latest theory of subatomic particles and compute the value of dark energy, we find a number that is off by 10 to the 120 power." What is the calculation and the experimental evidence he is referring to?
 
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  • #2
The calculation comes from the zero point energy of the particle fields (similar to the zero point energy in a Harmonic oscillator).
The experimental evidence is the rate of acceleration of expansion of the universe. Measured for example by supernovae surveys.
 
  • #3
Thanks, is there a reference that shows the two calculations?
 
  • #4
For the measured value, the main source is the wmap, e.g. http://arxiv.org/abs/1001.4538" [Broken].

A good review of the problem is http://arxiv.org/pdf/astro-ph/0004075". The main idea for the theoretical calculation is in the first few pages.
 
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  • #5
An interesting approach http://www.calphysics.org/zpe.html" [Broken] found on the CalPhysics site suggests that the gravitational effects of the vacuum field have a phase cutoff point. This allows the large, but constant energy field while limiting the gravitational effect (otherwise we would collapse to sub-atomic size)

Recent work by Christian Beck at the University of London and Michael Mackey at McGill University may have resolved the 120 order of magnitude problem. In that case dark energy is nothing other than zero-point energy. In Measureability of vacuum fluctuations and dark energy and Electromagnetic dark energy they propose that a phase transition occurs so that zero-point photons below a frequency of about 1.7 THz are gravitationally active whereas above that they are not. If this is the case, then the dark energy problem is solved: dark energy is the low frequency gravitationally active component of zero-point energy.
 
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1. What is dark energy?

Dark energy is a theoretical form of energy that is believed to make up about 70% of the total energy in the universe. It is thought to be responsible for the accelerated expansion of the universe.

2. How is dark energy calculated?

Dark energy is calculated using a combination of observational data and theoretical models. Scientists use measurements of the expansion rate of the universe, as well as the distribution of matter and radiation, to determine the amount of dark energy present.

3. What tools and techniques are used to calculate dark energy?

Scientists use a variety of tools and techniques to calculate dark energy, including telescopes, computer simulations, and mathematical equations. Observational data from sources such as supernovae, the cosmic microwave background, and galaxy clusters are also used.

4. What is the significance of calculating dark energy?

Calculating dark energy is crucial for understanding the evolution and fate of the universe. It can also provide insights into the fundamental laws of physics and potentially lead to new discoveries and advancements in our understanding of the universe.

5. Are there any uncertainties in calculating dark energy?

Yes, there are still many uncertainties in calculating dark energy. The exact nature and properties of dark energy are still not fully understood, and there are ongoing debates and research to improve our understanding of this elusive force.

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