Evolution of universe with differing SOL

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SUMMARY

This discussion explores the implications of varying the speed of light (c) on the structure and behavior of the universe. It posits scenarios where light travels at 550 km/second or 90,000,000,000 km/second, questioning whether fundamental cosmic phenomena such as stars, fusion, planets, or galaxies would still exist. The consensus indicates that altering the speed of light would necessitate changes in other fundamental constants, leading to significant differences in the universe's characteristics. The complexity of these changes suggests that only experts in theoretical physics can accurately assess the outcomes of such variations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of fundamental physics concepts, including the speed of light (c).
  • Familiarity with the implications of physical constants on cosmology.
  • Knowledge of theoretical frameworks in physics, such as natural units.
  • Basic grasp of astrophysics, including star formation and galaxy dynamics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the role of the speed of light in Einstein's theory of relativity.
  • Explore the concept of natural units and their application in theoretical physics.
  • Investigate how changes in fundamental constants affect cosmological models.
  • Study the implications of varying physical constants on star formation and galaxy evolution.
USEFUL FOR

The discussion is beneficial for theoretical physicists, cosmologists, and anyone interested in the fundamental principles governing the universe's structure and behavior.

tasp77
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I have seen discussions of universes with different numbers of spatial dimensions, universes without a strong arrow of time, universes with differing physical constants, etc. but I was wondering

(here it comes, you are wondering)

(LOL)

would our universe be substantially similar with a drastically different speed of light?

(and everything else the same, protons and gravity and such)

For instance, if light propagated at 550 km/second ??

Or

if light traveled at 90,000,000,000 km/second ??

And by substantially similar, would there be stars, and fusion, and planets and orbits, and galaxies ?
 
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There are unit systems where the speed of light is fixed to 1. It is just a conversion factor. If you don't change anything in natural units, nothing changes. Length and time do not have fundamental scales, unless you determine them via fundamental constants which include the speed of light.
 
tasp77 said:
I have seen discussions of universes with different numbers of spatial dimensions, universes without a strong arrow of time, universes with differing physical constants, etc. but I was wondering

(here it comes, you are wondering)

(LOL)

would our universe be substantially similar with a drastically different speed of light?

(and everything else the same, protons and gravity and such)

For instance, if light propagated at 550 km/second ??

Or

if light traveled at 90,000,000,000 km/second ??

And by substantially similar, would there be stars, and fusion, and planets and orbits, and galaxies ?


I looked into this once n a simplistic way. If c is different then many fundamental constants are different, and this would definitely make a difference. It was beyond me to say what. It would take a real expert to determine the consequences, and I think they have more practical things to do.
 

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