Why is the Matter+Lambda Universe Equation Equal to 1-Ω?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the equation Ω[Λ,o] = 1 - Ω[m,0] in the context of a matter + lambda universe. Participants explore the definitions and implications of this equation, questioning its validity and the components that contribute to the total density parameter.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that the sum of the Ω terms is defined to equal one, specifically in a matter + lambda universe that includes only matter and a cosmological constant term.
  • Others question the origin of the equation and request references to support its validity.
  • Some participants clarify that the equation holds true specifically for spatially flat matter + lambda universes, while it may not apply to general cases.
  • It is noted that regardless of the Ω values included, their sum is defined as equal to one, which is a characteristic of density fractions.
  • One participant emphasizes that the equation is true by definition and suggests that the original question may overlook deeper implications regarding the curvature parameter, Ω[k].
  • Another participant points out that the equation may not hold in theoretical cosmology without additional context.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the validity and applicability of the equation Ω[Λ,o] = 1 - Ω[m,0]. While some agree on its definition, others contest its general applicability and seek further clarification on the underlying assumptions.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions regarding the definitions of the components of the total density parameter and the specific conditions under which the equation applies. The discussion highlights the need for clarity on the assumptions made in different cosmological models.

Das apashanka
for the matter+lambda universe why is Ω[Λ,o]=1-Ω[m,0]?
 
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Das apashanka said:
for the matter+lambda universe why is Ω[Λ,o]=1-Ω[m,0]?

Where are you getting this equation from? Do you have a reference?
 
Das apashanka said:
for the matter+lambda universe why is Ω[Λ,o]=1-Ω[m,0]?
Because the sum of the ##\Omega## terms is defined to be equal to one, and a matter+lambda universe has only matter and a cosmological constant term.
 
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will you please explain why is the net Ω is equal to 1,and net Ω consists of which components
 
kimbyd said:
Because the sum of the ##\Omega## terms is defined to be equal to one, and a matter+lambda universe has only matter and a cosmological constant term.
will you please explain the reason for being total omega to be 1
 
@Das apashanka , you marked this thread as "A", indicating a graduate level knowledge of the subject matter. The questions you are asking indicate that you don't have that background; accordingly, I have changed the thread level to "I".
 
Das apashanka said:
will you please explain the reason for being total omega to be 1
There's no deep meaning. The parameter is just defined that way.
 
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Das apashanka said:
for the matter+lambda universe why is Ω[Λ,o]=1-Ω[m,0]?

It isn't, necessarily.

kimbyd said:
Because the sum of the ##\Omega## terms is defined to be equal to one, and a matter+lambda universe has only matter and a cosmological constant term.

This only is true for spatially flat matter/Lambda universes, i.e., it is not true for general matter/Lambda universes.
 
George Jones said:
This only is true for spatially flat matter/Lambda universes, i.e., it is not true for general matter/Lambda universes.
Whichever ##\Omega## values you include in your model, their sum is always identically equal to one. That's how they're defined: as density fractions. If you have matter, cosmological constant, and curvature, then it's:

$$\Omega_m + \Omega_\Lambda + \Omega_k = 1$$
 
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  • #10
kimbyd said:
Whichever ##\Omega## values you include in your model, their sum is always identically equal to one. That's how they're defined: as density fractions. If you have matter, cosmological constant, and curvature, then it's:

$$\Omega_m + \Omega_\Lambda + \Omega_k = 1$$

Of course. As you say, this is true **by definition**. But this is not what the original poster asked about. A question equivalent to the OP's question is "Why is ##\Omega_k = 0##?"

One possible answer is that the OP is looking at the (very close to) spatially flat observed universe at a time when ##\Omega_r## is negligible. One nice thing about this universe is that there is an explicit expression for the scale factor.

If, however, this an exercise in theoretical cosmology, there is no reason for

$$\Omega_m + \Omega_\Lambda = 1$$

in a matter/Lambda universe, which is what the OP asked about. So, what Peter asked is necessary,

PeterDonis said:
Where are you getting this equation from? Do you have a reference?
 
  • #11
George Jones said:
Of course. As you say, this is true **by definition**. But this is not what the original poster asked about. A question equivalent to the OP's question is "Why is ##\Omega_k = 0##?"
That's more or less the point I was getting at. There's no deep reason here. It's just the way the terms are defined.

But yes, there might be a more important question that is being missed here, so we might be able to offer better guidance if the broader context of the question were presented.
 

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