Charge balance in the universe?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the overall charge balance in the universe, with participants suggesting that it is generally neutral, despite potential local fluctuations. Some believe that while the universe's charge may fluctuate over time, it starts and ends in a neutral state. Others argue that the principle of charge conservation implies the total charge remains constant, allowing for regional fluctuations. The initial net charge of the universe remains uncertain among contributors. Overall, the consensus leans towards the universe being neutral, with localized variations possible.
chis
Messages
51
Reaction score
0
Hello, what is the assumed balance between neg, pos and nuetral charge in the whole universe? Does it balance out to nuetral?

Ta
Chris
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I think it fluctuates over time, But in its start state and end state it is neutral. Just a guess though don't quote me on it. :)
 
Current theory is that it is neutral overall, although there may be local fluctuations.
 
mathman said:
Current theory is that it is neutral overall, although there may be local fluctuations.

I think I remember reading what mathman said. I'm not sure why it's that way, though.
 
Lexus Dominus said:
I think it fluctuates over time, But in its start state and end state it is neutral. Just a guess though don't quote me on it. :)

I think the opposite. Since charge conservation is observed in all (correct me if I'm wrong) experiments to date, including those of particle accelerators, the total charge of the universe must remain constant. There is a possibility for fluctuations to occur in some regions due to flow of charge into or out of said regions.

As for the initial net charge of the universe, I don't know...
 
Thanks

Chris
 
It may be shown from the equations of electromagnetism, by James Clerk Maxwell in the 1860’s, that the speed of light in the vacuum of free space is related to electric permittivity (ϵ) and magnetic permeability (μ) by the equation: c=1/√( μ ϵ ) . This value is a constant for the vacuum of free space and is independent of the motion of the observer. It was this fact, in part, that led Albert Einstein to Special Relativity.
Back
Top