Relativity & Expansion of Universe: Einstein's Cosmological Constant

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In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between relativity and the expansion of the universe. General relativity predicts that the universe must either be expanding or contracting due to the slight changes in balance, and Einstein added the cosmological constant in hopes of achieving a static universe.
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phys lover199
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hi every body

i have a question what is the relation bet relativity and the expansion of the universe




and how einstine formed his cosmological condtant
 
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phys lover199 said:
hi every body

i have a question what is the relation bet relativity and the expansion of the universe

The relationship is that general relativity predicts a universe has to be either expanding or contracting. Holding perfectly still is like balancing a pencil on it's point - a slight change and it tips.




and how einstine formed his cosmological condtant

The cosmological constant was added by Einstein in hope of a static Universe solution - the constant would keep the Universe from expanding or contracting, but the balancing act is incredibly difficult.
 

1. What is the concept of relativity in Einstein's theory?

Relativity, as described by Albert Einstein, is the idea that the laws of physics are the same for all observers, regardless of their relative motion. This means that there is no absolute frame of reference and the laws of physics are constant throughout the universe.

2. How does Einstein's theory of relativity explain the expansion of the universe?

Einstein's theory of general relativity explains the expansion of the universe by including a term called the cosmological constant, which represents a repulsive force that counteracts the force of gravity. This allows for a universe that is either expanding or contracting, rather than staying static.

3. What is the significance of Einstein's cosmological constant in modern cosmology?

The cosmological constant has played a crucial role in modern cosmology, as it provides a way to explain the observed expansion of the universe. It also has implications for the ultimate fate of the universe, as it determines whether the expansion will continue indefinitely or eventually slow down and reverse.

4. How did Einstein's view on the cosmological constant change over time?

Initially, Einstein included the cosmological constant in his equations to create a static model of the universe. However, after the discovery of the expanding universe, he famously referred to it as his "greatest blunder" and removed it from his equations. Later on, with the discovery of dark energy, the cosmological constant was reintroduced to explain the observed acceleration of the expansion.

5. What current evidence supports the concept of relativity and expansion of the universe?

One of the main pieces of evidence for relativity and the expansion of the universe is the redshift of distant galaxies. This indicates that they are moving away from us, consistent with the expansion predicted by Einstein's theory. Other evidence includes the cosmic microwave background radiation and the large-scale structure of the universe, both of which support the idea of an expanding universe.

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