Field Lines in Expanding Space Explained

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between field lines in expanding space and the distribution of virtual particles in quantum foam. The question is whether the virtual particles become farther apart as space expands. The concept is related to the distribution of virtual particles in an evenly distributed "empty space" that expands or contracts due to factors like a gravitational field.
  • #1
Feeble Wonk
241
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Can anyone explain to an ignorant layperson, with as little mathematics/geometry as possible, whether field lines in expanding space become "farther apart". I view this question as being closely related to the concept of quantum foam distribution in expanding space... do virtual point particles in quantum foam form farther apart in expanding space?
 
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  • #2
OK... I've apparently not phrased my question in the appropriate fashion. Let me try again.
If we imagine "empty space" a evenly distributed with its quantum foam of bubbling virtual particles, and then recognize that the involved expanse of space will expand or contract subject to factors such as a gravitational field, how does the corresponding distribution of the virtual point particles change?
 

1. What are field lines in expanding space?

Field lines in expanding space refer to the paths that a charged particle will follow in an expanding universe. These field lines represent the force exerted by a charged particle on other particles in the expanding space.

2. How do field lines in expanding space work?

The field lines in expanding space work in a similar way to how they work in a non-expanding space. They show the direction and strength of the electric or magnetic field at any given point in the expanding space. However, in an expanding space, the strength of the field decreases as the universe expands.

3. What is the significance of field lines in expanding space?

The significance of field lines in expanding space is that they allow us to visualize and understand the behavior of charged particles in an expanding universe. They also help us to study the effects of an expanding universe on electric and magnetic fields.

4. How do field lines in expanding space relate to the expansion of the universe?

Field lines in expanding space are affected by the expansion of the universe. As the universe expands, the distance between charged particles increases, causing the strength of the electric and magnetic fields to decrease. This is reflected in the curvature and spacing of the field lines.

5. Can field lines in expanding space be observed?

Field lines in expanding space cannot be directly observed, as they are theoretical constructs used to describe the behavior of charged particles in an expanding universe. However, their effects on the behavior of charged particles can be observed and studied through experiments and observations of the universe.

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