What happens to light when it reaches the edge of the universe?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the behavior of light at the so-called "edge of the universe," exploring theoretical implications, cosmological models, and the nature of space. Participants engage with concepts from cosmology, including the curvature of the universe, the expansion rate, and the implications of the Big Bang.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that light cannot simply travel into "nothingness," as this would imply a contradiction with the conservation of energy.
  • Others argue that light would continue to travel indefinitely, as the concept of an "edge" may not apply to the universe.
  • One participant posits that if the universe is homogeneous, then light cannot reach an edge, as it would imply a difference from the rest of the universe.
  • There are claims that the universe's curvature could cause light to bend and flow along the edge, if such an edge exists.
  • Some participants assert that credible cosmological models indicate the universe does not have an edge.
  • Discussion includes the idea that the universe's expansion could be accelerating, potentially allowing an "edge" to recede faster than the speed of light.
  • Several participants mention that the initial expansion of the universe was faster than light, raising questions about the visibility of the Big Bang from the edge.
  • There are differing views on whether the universe is closed, flat, or open, and how this affects the behavior of light.
  • Some participants express uncertainty about the implications of the universe's density and its shape, suggesting ongoing debate in the scientific community.
  • Questions are raised about the existence of darkness in space if light could theoretically wrap around the universe.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express multiple competing views regarding the nature of the universe and the behavior of light at its edge. There is no consensus on whether the universe has an edge or how light behaves in relation to it.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects various assumptions about cosmological models, the nature of space, and the implications of the universe's expansion. Some claims depend on definitions of curvature and expansion rates, which remain unresolved.

  • #91
ebos said:
I would assume that the further one looks out towards the "edge" the closer one gets to the "beginning. No matter which direction you look out into space, the earlier you will see. So the 'edge' is the beginning with us seemingly at the center. This 'center' is everywhere since the 'big bang' started everywhere. Also, since space is curved, the radius of the observable universe is equal to its circumference. Hey, it works for me but since we in no way can ever understand these concepts (never say never) it will probably always remain a mystery. better to just go out and have a nice cold beer. Once in a while it is just OK to say, "I don't know".

did you notice that it's been over 3 yrs since this thread was last responded to ?
 
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  • #92
davenn said:
did you notice that it's been over 3 yrs since this thread was last responded to ?
Yes, my head is still sore where I just slapped it.. I noticed that about 10 secs after I posted. Hey, I've got Oldtimer's Syndrome. Wait till you're 62
 
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  • #93
ebos said:
Yes, my head is still sore where I just slapped it.. I noticed that about 10 secs after I posted. Hey, I've got Oldtimer's Syndrome. Wait till you're 62

Am only a handful of yrs behind you, I know the feeling wellDave
 
  • #94
davenn said:
Am only a handful of yrs behind you, I know the feeling wellDave
Ah you youngsters, always complaining. I'm way older and I still have a mind like a steel trap and a memory like an elephant. Now if I could just remember where I put the peanuts.
 
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  • #95
phinds said:
Ah you youngsters, always complaining. I'm way older and I still have a mind like a steel trap and a memory like an elephant. Now if I could just remember where I put the peanuts.

:-p :-p :-p :-p hahaha
 
  • #96
Thread closed. You are welcome to start a new one.
 

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