Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the units of the cosmological constant, specifically the claim that it should be measured in ##eV^2## rather than ##eV^4##. Participants explore the implications of different interpretations of the cosmological constant and its relation to energy density.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
- Technical explanation
Main Points Raised
- One participant asserts that in natural units, the cosmological constant is known to have units of ##eV^2##, questioning a paper that states it as ##meV^4##.
- Another participant clarifies that the dimension of the cosmological constant is energy^4, not energy^2, suggesting a misunderstanding of the units.
- A later reply distinguishes between the cosmological constant ##\Lambda## and the energy density ##\rho_\Lambda##, indicating that the paper in question discusses energy density, which is related but different from the constant itself.
- One participant suggests reverting to SI units to clarify the dimensions of ##\Lambda##, explaining that it corresponds to ##1/L^2## in natural units, thus leading to the conclusion that it has dimensions of ##eV^2##.
- Another participant notes that the relationship between ##\Lambda## and energy density involves constants like ##8\pi G##, which also influences the dimensional analysis.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the appropriate units for the cosmological constant, with some asserting it should be ##eV^2## while others maintain it is ##eV^4##. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the interpretation of these units and their implications.
Contextual Notes
The discussion highlights potential confusion between the cosmological constant and its associated energy density, as well as the dependence on the definitions and contexts in which these terms are used.