Infinite Galaxy: Can Our Universe Really End?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of the universe's potential end, specifically examining theories such as the Big Crunch and the notion of an infinite universe. Participants highlight that while some scientists advocate for the Big Crunch as a definitive conclusion to the universe, others argue for the possibility of an infinite cosmos. The conversation also touches on the evolution of human theories regarding the universe's end over millennia, prompting a deeper inquiry into the definition of "end," including concepts like heat death and non-existence.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of cosmological theories, specifically the Big Crunch and infinite universe concepts.
  • Familiarity with the terminology of heat death and non-existence in cosmology.
  • Knowledge of historical perspectives on the universe's end and how they have evolved.
  • Basic grasp of scientific inquiry and the development of theories over time.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Big Crunch theory and its implications for the universe's fate.
  • Explore the concept of heat death and its significance in cosmological models.
  • Investigate historical theories about the universe's end and their evolution over time.
  • Examine current cosmological models and their predictions regarding the universe's future.
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, cosmologists, philosophy enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the future of the universe and the evolution of scientific thought regarding its end.

aricho
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"infinite Galaxy"

If our "infinite" universe had a beginning, it has an end, right?
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
Do definte proof has been found yet as to the future of the Universe. Some say it will fall back on itself in the 'big crunch' and that would be the end.
 
It's a question that has a few possible answers. As AMT said, several scientists believe that our universe will eventually end in what is called the Big Crunch, while some believe it is possible that our universe is infinite. You can read more about the big crunch Here
 
You can take a more restrictive view of this: what is the best cosmological model today ('best' of course is somewhat up to you to decide)? What does it say re 'an end'?

You can also take a more relaxed view: humans have been developing theories re the 'end of the universe' for, what, a few thousand years? How have our answers changed, over that incredibly short period of time? What can you conclude from humans' views of whether the universe will 'end' or not, in terms of whether it will, *truly* end?
 
You may also want to define "end" (heat death? non-existence?)
 

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