Undergrad Density parameter and curvature index

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In cosmology, when the density parameter Ω equals 1, the curvature index κ is defined as 0, indicating a flat universe. If Ω exceeds 1, κ must be positive, reflecting a closed universe, while if Ω is less than 1, κ is negative, indicating an open universe. The value of κ is intrinsically linked to Ω, meaning it cannot exist independently. The curvature index can be defined using different conventions, such as the (-1,0,1) system, which simplifies understanding its relationship with Ω. Thus, κ's value is directly influenced by the density parameter Ω.
Ranku
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For Ω=1, κ=0. Does the value of κ simply follow from the value of Ω, or can its value have an independent existence? So if Ω>1, does κ have to be 1?
 
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Context would be useful. I don't want to guess what you mean.
 
Ranku said:
So if Ω>1, does κ have to be 1?
Yes, by definition. Since Ω=1 is the critical density - the density at which the universe is flat - any other value of Ω necessitates that the k parameter is not 0 and has the same sign as Ω-1.
 
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Likes Jaime Rudas and Ranku
Define k for me.
 
The definition of k seems to have more than one option. For example the (-1,0,1) option simplifies your question.
 
I always thought it was odd that we know dark energy expands our universe, and that we know it has been increasing over time, yet no one ever expressed a "true" size of the universe (not "observable" universe, the ENTIRE universe) by just reversing the process of expansion based on our understanding of its rate through history, to the point where everything would've been in an extremely small region. The more I've looked into it recently, I've come to find that it is due to that "inflation"...

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