Fate of matter with universal heat death

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the fate of matter in the context of the universe's eventual heat death, exploring whether all matter could become superconducting or manifest as quantum condensates, and the implications of proton decay on these phenomena.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that all matter could eventually become superconducting or form quantum condensates as the universe approaches heat death.
  • Others argue that matter will decay into low energy photons, particularly if proton decay occurs.
  • A participant references the uncertainty surrounding the half-life of protons and its implications for the fate of matter, suggesting that if protons decay, superconductivity may not be possible.
  • Another participant questions whether there might be a cosmological era dominated by superconductivity or condensates, noting their distinctiveness at low temperatures in laboratory settings.
  • It is suggested that if protons do not decay, all matter could eventually behave as a liquid through quantum tunneling.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express multiple competing views regarding the fate of matter, particularly concerning the role of proton decay and the potential for superconductivity or quantum condensates. The discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations related to the assumptions about proton decay and the definitions of superconductivity and quantum condensates, which are not fully explored in the discussion.

Loren Booda
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Assuming the eventual heat death of the universe, would there be a time when all matter becomes superconducting, or manifests as quantum condensates?
 
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I think the theory is they will all decay into low energy photons.
 
Might there be an cosmological era when superconductivity or condensates predominate? In the lab they seem the most distinctive phenomena at low temperatures.
 
It depends. If protons decay there will be no matter to be superconductive, but if they don't then via quantum tunneling all matter will eventualy behave as liquid.
 

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