Is the Universe Truly Expanding? Examining the Paradox of Infinite Expansion

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the paradox of the universe's expansion in relation to its potential infinitude. Participants argue that while geometry suggests the universe may be infinite, this does not preclude the possibility of expansion. A key point made is that if the universe is indeed infinite, continued expansion can coexist with this property. The concept of infinity is highlighted as crucial to understanding this phenomenon.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic cosmology concepts
  • Familiarity with the mathematical concept of infinity
  • Knowledge of geometric principles related to space
  • Awareness of current theories in astrophysics regarding universe expansion
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical implications of infinity in cosmology
  • Study the principles of cosmic expansion and the Big Bang theory
  • Explore geometric models of the universe, such as the Friedmann-Lemaître-Robertson-Walker metric
  • Investigate current astrophysical observations supporting universe expansion
USEFUL FOR

Astrophysicists, cosmologists, students of physics, and anyone interested in the fundamental nature of the universe and its expansion.

Ben.meyer
Messages
12
Reaction score
0
I have been looking around people are talking about the universe expanding. By geometry we are able to figure out that the universe is infinite. The question is, if the universe is infinite than how can be expanding?
 
Space news on Phys.org
Ben.meyer said:
I have been looking around people are talking about the universe expanding. By geometry we are able to figure out that the universe is infinite. The question is, if the universe is infinite than how can be expanding?

No, we are NOT able to calculate that the universe is infinite. It MIGHT be, or it might not be.

Regardless, if it IS infinite, then continued expansion is not a problem.

You should read up on the concept of infinity.
 
Imagine I have a set 1,2,3,4,5,6,...

Then some later time that set has now 2,4,6,8,10,12,...

Both sets are infinite, but in some sense that set has expanded.
 
Thanks, that definitely gave me a better understanding.
 

Similar threads

High School How can an infinite universe expand?
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K
High School Does an infinite universe contradict a Big Bang origin?
  • · Replies 65 ·
3
Replies
65
Views
8K
High School Conflict between the conservation of matter and the rapid expansion of our universe
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
1K
Undergrad Particle production in an expanding universe?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Undergrad What if the Universe expands faster than the speed of light?
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
4K
High School Do Atoms Expand with the Universe?
  • · Replies 76 ·
3
Replies
76
Views
7K
High School What Would You See at the Edge of the Expanding Universe?
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
2K
Undergrad 3 questions about a paper on density fluctuations in the Universe
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Graduate Evolution of radio sources mimics a non-expanding universe
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
High School Big Bang and Infinite Universe
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
2K