Can a universe exist without matter?

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SUMMARY

A universe can exist without matter, as demonstrated by classical General Relativity (GR) which allows for vacuum solutions consisting solely of energy, such as radiation, or pure gravity. In quantum gravity, the concepts of space, time, and energy remain fundamental, indicating that matter is not a necessary component for a universe to exist. The discussion highlights the theoretical possibility of alternate dimensions devoid of matter, although such scenarios pose challenges for observation and verification.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of General Relativity (GR)
  • Familiarity with quantum gravity concepts
  • Knowledge of vacuum solutions in physics
  • Basic principles of energy and radiation
NEXT STEPS
  • Research vacuum solutions in General Relativity
  • Explore the implications of quantum gravity theories
  • Investigate the concept of alternate dimensions in theoretical physics
  • Study the role of energy and radiation in cosmology
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Theoretical physicists, cosmologists, and students interested in the foundations of the universe and the nature of existence without matter.

Dremmer
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Just including time, space and energy, but no matter?
 
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If by "can a universe exist" you mean "does a consistent classical GR description exist", then yes you can have a universe with energy (just radiation) but no matter, or you can even have a universe with just pure gravity - a so-called vacuum solution.
 
But what if in quantum gravity?
 
Yes, Space Time and Energy, that's what most things consist of such as the unverse. Matter makes up parts of the unoverse such as our solar system and our planet. Think of alternate dimensions that you here of on TV or in Movies. They sometimes have no matter but yet they exist. This topic can be tricky but yes i pretty sure you can have a universe with no matter.
 
Why is that even interesting, if it's inherently impossible to observe or verify?
 
Duplicate thread.
 

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