High School How could something that is infinite (the Universe) expand?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of the universe's expansion, particularly how something infinite can expand. Participants clarify that expansion refers to the change in scale of space rather than a physical expansion into another space. Key concepts include the FLRW metric scale factor and the idea that any finite subset of an infinite space can increase in size over time. The conversation emphasizes that while distances may grow locally, the nature of infinity means there is no definitive "infinitieth" point in an infinite sequence.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the FLRW metric scale factor
  • Familiarity with Riemannian metrics in mathematical modeling
  • Basic knowledge of cosmological principles regarding space expansion
  • Concept of local versus global properties in infinite sets
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of the FLRW metric in cosmology
  • Explore Riemannian geometry and its applications in physics
  • Study the concept of local expansion in infinite sets
  • Investigate the nature of spacetime and its dimensional properties
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, physicists, mathematicians, and anyone interested in the theoretical implications of cosmic expansion and the nature of infinity.

  • #31
valenumr said:
Even if they expand by an extremely small rate, the "intfintieth" stake would be moving away, well, at infinite speed. Would it not?
If a thing does not exist then it is meaningless to speculate on its properties. It cannot even be correctly referred to. The "infinitieth stake" falls into this category. It cannot properly be referred to.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K
  • · Replies 65 ·
3
Replies
65
Views
7K
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
2K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K