Is the Universe Spinning? | General Relativity

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    Spinning Universe
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the concept of whether the universe can be considered to be spinning, particularly in the context of General Relativity. Participants explore various theoretical frameworks, implications of spinning universes, and potential experimental evidence related to this idea.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question how to define the spin of the universe, suggesting that it may have angular momentum shortly after the Big Bang.
  • Others reference Kurt Gödel's model of a spinning universe, which purportedly allows for closed timelike paths and potential time travel.
  • A Machian perspective is proposed, arguing that the universe cannot spin as a whole without a reference point, although parts of it could rotate relative to each other.
  • Some participants speculate on the implications of Gravity Probe B's results for understanding universal rotation and its relation to General Relativity and Mach's Principle.
  • There are inquiries about how the spin rate of the universe might change over time, particularly in relation to cosmic expansion.
  • One participant suggests that if the universe is spinning, it could be spinning relative to a larger structure, akin to cells within a body.
  • Another participant emphasizes that a rotating universe does not imply a center of rotation, aligning with the Copernican principle, and discusses the concept of vorticity in this context.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views on the spinning universe concept, with no consensus reached. Some support the idea of a spinning universe, while others challenge it based on different theoretical frameworks.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the complexity of defining rotation in the universe, the dependence on various theoretical assumptions, and the unresolved nature of the implications of Gravity Probe B's findings.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to those studying cosmology, general relativity, and theoretical physics, particularly in relation to the nature of the universe and its dynamics.

  • #31
surajt88 said:
No crazy math required. Earth IS the centre of our observable universe.

To be more accurate, one could say that every observer is always at the center of their own observable universe.
 
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  • #32
Drakkith said:
To be more accurate, one could say that every observer is always at the center of their own observable universe.

Precisely.
 

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