What Is Containing Our Universe?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of what, if anything, contains the universe. Participants explore the implications of the universe's expansion and its geometric properties, touching on theoretical frameworks and interpretations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether the universe is contained within something, expressing uncertainty about the nature of its boundaries.
  • Another participant asserts that the universe is not contained in anything and suggests that its curvature is intrinsic, proposing that if it is an n-dimensional universe, it cannot be contained in a higher-dimensional space.
  • A different participant raises a question about how the universe can continue to expand if it is not contained within anything, implying a need for a conceptual framework that accommodates this expansion.
  • Reference is made to the 'no boundary condition' proposed by Stephen Hawking, which offers a perspective on a finite but unbounded universe.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether the universe is contained within something, with some asserting it is not, while others seek clarification on the implications of expansion. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing views present.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not fully explore the implications of the 'no boundary condition' or the assumptions underlying their claims about dimensionality and curvature, leaving some aspects of the discussion open to interpretation.

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It's been on my mind lately. Do we have any idea of what our universe is contained in? Whats containing it even?


Is this question silly and not possible to know about??
 
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Sorry! said:
Do we have any idea of what our universe is contained in? Whats containing it even?

Hi Sorry! :smile:

It's not contained in anything.

Its curvature is intrinsic.

If it's an n-dimensional universe, then it's not contained in an (n+1)-dimensional universe (or higher) …

the universe is all there is. :wink:
 
So then how can it continue to expand? Wouldn't it need to get 'bigger' in order to keep expanding?
 
Google on the 'no boundary condition'. Stephen Hawking provides a plausible explanation for a universe that is finite, but, unbounded.
 
ok thanks chronos
 

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