The theoretical basis for a hot Big Bang?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the theoretical basis for a hot Big Bang, exploring concepts related to cosmic microwave background radiation (CMBR), nucleosynthesis, and alternative models such as a 'cold' Big Bang or the "tired light" hypothesis. The scope includes theoretical considerations and competing models within cosmology.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the hot Big Bang theory is based on the redshifted CMBR and the denser packing of matter in a smaller initial space, with nucleosynthesis as a secondary benefit.
  • Another participant questions the existence of a 'cold' Big Bang or the possibility of no Big Bang at all.
  • Some participants discuss the "tired light" hypothesis proposed by Fritz Zwicky, which posits an alternative explanation for redshift but lacks a theoretical foundation according to others.
  • It is noted that the "tired light" hypothesis has been abandoned due to its predictions not matching observations, specifically regarding the amount of scatter observed in light from distant galaxies.
  • A later reply emphasizes that the theoretical basis for a hot Big Bang is more complex than initially described and suggests consulting modern cosmology textbooks for a deeper understanding.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement regarding the validity and theoretical foundation of alternative models like the "tired light" hypothesis. There is no consensus on the adequacy of the hot Big Bang theory versus alternative explanations.

Contextual Notes

Some claims about the predictions of the "tired light" hypothesis and the hot Big Bang theory are presented without resolving the underlying assumptions or the implications of observational data.

hkyriazi
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Is the theoretical basis for a hot Big Bang simply the combination of the assumedly redshifted CMBR (whose photons were thus thought to be much more energetic long ago), along with the assumed much tighter packing of matter in the initially much smaller space? (The perceived need for such a hot initial Universe in order for nucleosynthesis to occur is a side benefit.)
 
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As opposed to a 'cold' big bang? Or no big bang at all?
 
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Drakkith said:
As opposed to a 'cold' big bang? Or no big bang at all?
The latter, and also "cold" nucleosynthesis. The redshift/distance relationship can also be explained in a much more visualizable and intuitive way as an inherent redshift of ancient matter's light emissions/absorptions, and that the latter have gradually been getting bluer since then. Also, Fritz Zwicky sought a reasonable explanation back in 1933, with his "tired light" hypothesis. But such ideas haven't been seriously pursued because they lacked a theoretical foundation.
 
hkyriazi said:
But such ideas haven't been seriously pursued because they lacked a theoretical foundation.
No, they were abandoned because their predictions don't match observation.

As an example, "tired light" predicts more scatter than is observed. This was noticed by...um...Fritz Zwicky.
 
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Last edited:
Thread closed temporarily for Moderation...
 
hkyriazi said:
the theoretical basis for a hot Big Bang
...is a lot more than what you're describing in your OP. I suggest taking some time to work through a good modern textbook on cosmology, such as Liddle:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/0470848359/?tag=pfamazon01-20

Having a good initial understanding of the model will enable you to ask much better questions.
 
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