Can an Oscillating Eternal Universe be Described without Singularity?

In summary, the conversation explored the FLRW metric and the definition of the scale factor. The participants discussed the possibility of using a specific definition for the scale factor, but it was noted that simply giving a scale factor does not fully define the metric. The conversation also touched on the Standard Model of cosmology and its existing definition for the scale factor. It was suggested that one should be able to write down the general FRW metric and plug in the proposed ansatz for the scale factor to see if it makes sense mathematically and physically.
  • #1
victorvmotti
155
5
Consider the FLRW metric.

We pick a specific definition for the scale factor as suggested bellow.

Suppose we have a hypothetical metric having the scale factor defined by

## a(t)=\sin(t) (1+ \text {sgn}(\sin(t)) +\epsilon ##

Does this make sense, mathematically (and physically)?

Like having a continuous smooth (differentiable) manifold. Or relating to the geometric properties of homogeneity and isotropy, an expanding and contracting universe?

Can this describe an oscillating eternal infinite universe without singularity?

If it does not, how to write a metric that can do so?
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
victorvmotti said:
Suppose we have a hypothetical metric having the scale factor
Just giving a scale factor doesn't tell us what the metric is. You need to write down the entire line element.
 
  • #3
PeterDonis said:
Just giving a scale factor doesn't tell us what the metric is. You need to write down the entire line element.
Actually, I meant that the Standard Model of cosmology and its metric to be used, only that we pick a specific definition for the scale factor as suggested.
 
  • #4
victorvmotti said:
Actually, I meant that the Standard Model of cosmology and its metric to be used, only that we pick a specific definition for the scale factor as suggested.
The Standard Model of cosmology already includes a definition for the scale factor, which is not yours.

If you mean the general FRW metric, you should be able to write it down. And you should also be able to plug your ansatz for the scale factor into the equations that that metric gives (the Friedmann Equations) to see whether they make sense. Anyone with the background knowledge for an "A" level thread on this topic should be able to do that.
 

1. What is an oscillating eternal universe?

An oscillating eternal universe is a theoretical concept in which the universe undergoes a cycle of expansion and contraction infinitely. This means that the universe has no beginning or end, and the cycle of expansion and contraction repeats itself indefinitely.

2. Can an oscillating eternal universe be described without singularity?

Yes, it is possible to describe an oscillating eternal universe without singularity. Singularity refers to a point of infinite density and curvature, which is typically associated with the Big Bang theory. In an oscillating eternal universe, the cycle of expansion and contraction prevents the universe from reaching a state of singularity.

3. How is an oscillating eternal universe different from the Big Bang theory?

The Big Bang theory suggests that the universe began with a singularity and has been expanding ever since. On the other hand, an oscillating eternal universe does not have a singular beginning and undergoes cycles of expansion and contraction indefinitely.

4. What evidence supports the idea of an oscillating eternal universe?

Currently, there is no conclusive evidence to support the existence of an oscillating eternal universe. However, some theories, such as the cyclic model, propose that the universe may have undergone multiple cycles of expansion and contraction in the past, which could potentially support the idea of an oscillating eternal universe.

5. Are there any challenges to the concept of an oscillating eternal universe?

Yes, there are several challenges to the concept of an oscillating eternal universe. One major challenge is the lack of evidence to support its existence. Additionally, there are also theoretical challenges, such as the problem of entropy, which suggests that the universe would eventually reach a state of maximum disorder in an oscillating eternal universe. However, these challenges do not completely rule out the possibility of an oscillating eternal universe and further research is needed to fully understand this concept.

Similar threads

  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
5
Views
899
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
2
Views
987
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
6
Views
977
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
22
Views
1K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
9
Views
922
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
12
Views
1K
Back
Top