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

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the behavior of light at the edge of the universe, concluding that the universe does not possess an edge in any credible cosmological model. Participants assert that light cannot reach an "edge" because the universe is either closed, open, or flat, and its three-dimensional space is curved back on itself. The initial expansion of the universe during the Big Bang occurred at a speed exceeding that of light, leading to the understanding that light emitted from the Big Bang could not reach a hypothetical edge. Furthermore, the expansion of the universe is accelerating, which means that any edge would be receding faster than light, making it unreachable.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of cosmological models (closed, open, flat)
  • Familiarity with the concept of light speed and recession velocity
  • Knowledge of the Big Bang theory and its implications
  • Basic grasp of the curvature of space-time
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of the Big Bang on the observable universe
  • Study the curvature of space-time and its effects on light propagation
  • Explore the concept of recession velocity in cosmology
  • Learn about Hubble's Law and its relation to the expansion of the universe
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, cosmologists, physics students, and anyone interested in the fundamental nature of the universe and the behavior of light in cosmological contexts.

  • #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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