Does the Universe Rotate and Does it Have an Axis?

[eah2119]

I just wanted to point out that if you are suggesting that the universe is rotating, it must have an axis to rotate on, and thus a center. If the universe has a center, it is spherical in shape and also has a definite size (mass). I recollect that a post earlier in this thread argued that the universe is infinite in size and can not have a center. I believe he or she also mentioned this to be the accepted cosmological model.

Sorry if this has been resolved already or if I'm not referring to what you're referring to. I haven't understood every word thus far (I'm in the 11th grade). Don't bother trying to explain anything to me if it seems I won't get it.

 

[Dotini]

Wouldn't it be quite desirable and/or convenient that the universe be rotating - or at least moving - because that would make it much easier to explain the existence of energy?

Respectfully submitted,
Steve

 

[bcrowell]

I just wanted to point out that if you are suggesting that the universe is rotating, it must have an axis to rotate on, and thus a center.

Rotation in general relativity doesn't work the way you'd think based on Newtonian intuition. You can have rotation without a center. The FAQ discusses this: https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=506988

I recollect that a post earlier in this thread argued that the universe is infinite in size and can not have a center.

We don't know if it's infinite in size. We have a FAQ on this too: https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=506986