Is the universe large and finite, or infinite?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of the universe being either finite or infinite, with the possibility of it starting at an infinite size being difficult to imagine. The question of whether the Copenhagen interpretation is still valid is not related to the main topic and should be discussed in a separate thread.
  • #1
Luciano Kurban
2
0
Dear Sir,

If we consider the Big Bang Hypotesis , the age of the universe and the rate of expansion ogf space, the Universe could be very large , but finite.
But Prof Sean Carrol said , in a lecture , that there's a possibility of Infinite Universe.
Please elaborate.
 
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  • #2
Is the Copenhagen interpretation valid nowadays ?
 
  • #3
Please ask only one question per thread. Your two questions have nothing to do with each other and this will cause confusion.

I will assume the thread is to be on the first question.

What is there to elaborate? The size and shape of the universe are unknown. The universe might be finite but unbounded or it might be infinite. If it is finite, the shape is unknown.

If it is infinite now, it was infinite at the earliest times (finite things don't become infinite) and this is something that is difficult to imagine for some people, that it could START at infinite size.

EDIT: Also, I encourage you to use subject lines that have some meaning. "Mr." is not a helpful subject line
 

1. Is the universe infinite?

Currently, scientists do not know for certain if the universe is infinite or not. The universe appears to be expanding, which suggests that it may be infinite. However, there are also theories that suggest the universe may be finite but unbounded, meaning it has no edge or boundary.

2. How do scientists measure the size of the universe?

Scientists use various methods, such as measuring the cosmic microwave background radiation, the rate of expansion of the universe, and the distribution of galaxies, to estimate the size of the observable universe. However, it is not possible to measure the entire universe due to its vastness and our limited technology.

3. Is there an end to the universe?

There is currently no evidence to suggest that there is an end to the universe. The concept of an end or edge to the universe is based on the idea that the universe has a finite size. However, as mentioned earlier, the universe may be infinite or unbounded, which means there would be no end to it.

4. What is the significance of knowing the size of the universe?

Understanding the size of the universe helps us gain a better understanding of the nature of our existence and our place in the universe. It also allows scientists to study the evolution of the universe and make predictions about its future. Knowing the size of the universe also helps us understand the laws of physics and the fundamental principles that govern our universe.

5. Can the size of the universe change?

The size of the observable universe may change due to the expansion of space. However, it is not possible for the entire universe to change in size as it is considered to be infinite. There are also theories that suggest the possibility of multiple universes, which could potentially have different sizes.

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