What Does the Maximum Proper Distance at z ~ 1.7 Mean in Cosmology?

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SUMMARY

The maximum proper distance at redshift z ~ 1.7 in a matter-dominated universe indicates that light emitted from sources at this redshift corresponds to a specific distance at the time of emission. This maximum arises because light from high redshift sources originates from regions that were closer in the past, while low redshift sources are nearby now. The discussion concludes that this maximum does not hold any particular significance beyond illustrating the relationship between redshift and proper distance in cosmology.

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Homework Statement


Hi all.

When looking at a graph that shows the proper distance at the time of emission as a function of the redshift z in a model-universe with only matter, the proper distance at time of emission has a maximum at about z ~ 1.7. What does this maximum mean?

I can see that light with a high redshift must come from a source, which was initially close to us, and similarly light with a small redshift also comes from close to us. But again, what about the in-between, i.e. the maximum?
 
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Since it's distance at the time of emission, yes, small z comes from sources nearby in distance and time and large z comes from sources that are currently far away, but were close at the time of emission because the universe was so much smaller. I think that's what you are saying. So, sure, then there must be a maximum. I don't think that maximum has any particular significance.
 
Ok, thanks. I didn't suspect it having any meaning, but it's always nice to get a second-opinion.
 

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