Uniformity of universe expansion

In summary, the uniformity of the expansion of the visible universe is supported by the CMBR and the uniformity of the red shift. Theoretically, it is possible to measure this with a highly sensitive interferometer, but it is unlikely to yield any results other than further support for the Cosmological Principle. This thought experiment is valid, but its potential results are unknown.
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nomadreid
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As far as I understand, the justifications for the uniformity of the expansion of the visible universe comes from the CMBR and from the uniformity of the red shift around us. However, I was wondering whether theoretically one could make an interferometer sensitive enough to measure this: the sensitivity of the Michelson Morley interferometer was enough to measure differences of the speed of light with respect to the vacuum, but it would need greater sensitivity to see whether, assuming this result, the expansion of space would make a difference in different directions. Is this an unrealizable thought experiment, or is the thought experiment itself faulty?
 
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Well, clearly, assuming such a non-uniformity exists, it would require more sensitivity than our current instruments have to measure it since otherwise it would have already been observed. How much more sensitivity would, presumably, depend on the extent of the difference.
 
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Thanks, phinds. In other words, the thought experiment is valid, but as many thought experiments, it is unknown whether it would eventually give a result.
 
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nomadreid said:
Thanks, phinds. In other words, the thought experiment is valid, but as many thought experiments, it is unknown whether it would eventually give a result.
True, but it is very unlikely to give any results (other than just continuing support for the Cosmological Principle).
 

1. What is the current understanding of the uniformity of universe expansion?

The current understanding is that the universe is expanding at a uniform rate in all directions, meaning that the distance between galaxies is increasing at the same rate regardless of their location in the universe.

2. How do scientists measure the uniformity of universe expansion?

Scientists use a variety of methods, such as observing the redshift of light from distant galaxies and mapping the cosmic microwave background radiation, to measure the rate of expansion and look for any variations or patterns.

3. Is the uniformity of universe expansion a recent discovery?

No, the concept of a uniform expansion has been a fundamental principle in cosmology since the discovery of the expanding universe in the early 20th century. However, advancements in technology and observational techniques have allowed scientists to study it in more detail.

4. What are the implications of a non-uniform expansion of the universe?

If the universe was expanding at different rates in different directions, it would suggest the presence of some unknown force or phenomenon that is affecting the expansion. This could potentially challenge our current understanding of the universe and its evolution.

5. How does the uniformity of universe expansion support the Big Bang theory?

The uniformity of universe expansion is a key piece of evidence for the Big Bang theory. The theory predicts that the universe should have a homogeneous and isotropic expansion, which is consistent with the observed uniformity. Additionally, the cosmic microwave background radiation provides further support for the Big Bang theory and the uniformity of universe expansion.

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