What has changed in physics since the beginning of PF?

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The discussion centers on significant advancements in physics since the inception of the forum, particularly the discovery that the Universe is not only expanding but doing so at an accelerating rate. This revelation marks a pivotal shift in understanding cosmic dynamics. Additionally, the reclassification of Pluto from a planet to a non-planet is highlighted as another major change in astronomical classification. Participants also reflect on the timeline of these developments, noting that the forum began in 2001 and that discussions about the Universe's expansion and acceleration were emerging as early as 1998. The conversation touches upon earlier scientific challenges, such as the solar neutrino problem, indicating the evolving nature of physics discussions over the years.
tribdog
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When I first started posting on PF the big question in physics was whether the Universe would expand forever, or if gravity would eventually win and cause a big crush. Since then we've learned that not only is the Universe expanding, it is accelerating. This is the biggest change in what we know about physics that I can think of. What other major changes has there been since PF started?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I guess Pluto becoming a non planet is up there too.
 
tribdog said:
When I first started posting on PF the big question in physics was whether the Universe would expand forever, or if gravity would eventually win and cause a big crush. Since then we've learned that not only is the Universe expanding, it is accelerating.

Was PF around pre-1998?
 
That's what I was about to post. I first heard about the acceleration in "official" terms in March of 1999, and it was being discussed informally at least a year before that.
 
cristo said:
Was PF around pre-1998?

We started Spring of 2001
 
I hadn't heard about it until about 2003 and that's what's important
 
Greg Bernhardt said:
We started Spring of 2001

So you were probably still worrying about the solar neutrino problem ?
 

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