Universe expansion is accelerating?

In summary, the conversation discusses the Expansion of the Universe and its relationship with the speed of light. It is explained that while the Universe is expanding at an accelerating rate, this does not contradict the speed limit of light because it is the space itself that is expanding, not objects within it. Additionally, it is noted that the recession velocity of objects in our Observable Universe can exceed the speed of light, but this is not considered proper velocity and does not violate the speed limit.
  • #1
AlbertoSalomon
3
0
Hi i have a question, i m a engineer but i have probably a dumb question ¿if the Expansion of the Universe is accelerating, but exist a speed limit "c" this tell me that at one point the universe will expand at a constant rate?
 
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  • #2
Its an often-asked question. What happens is that *space* itself expands at an accelerating rate, and is thus not bound by the speed of light. The speed of light is a maximum bound for something that travels *in* space, but space itself can expand at any rate it wants.
 
  • #3
Actually "*space* itself expands" is a very contentious way of describing it. More correctly, it is simply that things get farther apart. Google "metric expansion" for more details.
 
  • #4
thanks for your answers
 
  • #5
You might also be interested to know that even within our Observable Universe, the recession velocity of things the farthest away from us is currently about 3c. No speeding tickets are issued because recession velocity is not proper velocity and speeding tickets only apply to proper velocity
 

1. What is universe expansion?

The universe is constantly expanding, meaning that the distance between galaxies and other celestial bodies is increasing over time. This expansion was first observed by astronomer Edwin Hubble in the 1920s.

2. How is universe expansion measured?

Scientists use a variety of methods to measure the expansion of the universe, including observing the redshift of light from distant galaxies, measuring the cosmic microwave background radiation, and studying the distribution of galaxies in the universe.

3. What is causing the universe to expand?

The exact cause of universe expansion is still a topic of debate among scientists. The leading theory is that the universe is expanding due to the presence of dark energy, a mysterious force that is pushing galaxies away from each other.

4. How do we know that universe expansion is accelerating?

Scientists have observed that the rate of universe expansion is increasing over time, meaning that galaxies are moving away from each other at a faster and faster rate. This was first discovered by studying the light from distant supernovae in the late 1990s.

5. What are the implications of universe expansion accelerating?

The accelerating expansion of the universe has many implications for our understanding of the cosmos. It suggests that the universe may continue to expand forever, and that the majority of the universe is made up of dark energy and dark matter, which we are still trying to understand. It also has implications for the fate of our own galaxy and the possibility of life on other planets.

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