Zero energy universe means nothing exists at all times

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of a zero energy universe and how it relates to the existence of matter and gravity. It is argued that the concept of zero energy is an accounting trick and does not necessarily mean that neither matter nor gravity exist. The existence of antimatter is also brought up, with the clarification that it has positive energy, not negative energy like some theories suggest. The conversation ends with a question about whether the existence of protons and electrons can be compared to the concept of zero energy. The conversation was eventually closed due to straying away from mainstream science and personal theories.
  • #1
George bailey
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If any positive energy always has a negative energy counterpart, then nothing ever exists. Am I missing something here?
 
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  • #2
In the zero energy scenario, the positive energy of matter is offset by the negative energy of gravity. It would not be logical to infer that neither matter or gravity exists on this basis. It has been suggested the zero energy universe concept is little more than an accounting trick to balance the energy budget of the universe. It makes more sense than positing the universe must include an equal mass of antimatter to balance the books. We have abundant evidence for gravity and zero evidence for large quantities of antimatter in the universe.
 
  • #3
But antimatter does not have negative energy. It has positive energy just like ordinary matter.
 
  • #4
George bailey said:
If any positive energy always has a negative energy counterpart, then nothing ever exists. Am I missing something here?
Protons have positive electric charge, while electrons have negative electric charge. The total charge is always zero. Does this mean that neither protons nor electrons exist?
 
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Likes bapowell
  • #5
Closed pending moderation
 
  • #6
Last edited by a moderator:

1. What is a zero energy universe?

A zero energy universe is a theoretical concept in which the total energy of the universe is exactly zero. This means that the positive energy of matter is exactly balanced by the negative energy of gravity, resulting in a net energy of zero.

2. Does this mean that nothing exists in a zero energy universe?

No, the term "zero energy" refers to the total energy of the universe, not the absence of all matter or existence. In a zero energy universe, matter and energy still exist, but their positive and negative energies balance out.

3. How is a zero energy universe different from a universe with zero matter?

A universe with zero matter would have no particles or physical objects, while a zero energy universe can still have matter and energy, but their overall energy balance would be zero. Additionally, a zero energy universe is a theoretical concept, while a universe with zero matter is not currently supported by scientific evidence.

4. How is the concept of a zero energy universe related to the Big Bang theory?

The Big Bang theory describes the beginning of our universe as a singularity with infinite density and temperature. In this scenario, the total energy of the universe would also be zero, as all positive and negative energies would cancel out. However, the concept of a zero energy universe goes beyond the Big Bang and is a more general theoretical concept.

5. How does a zero energy universe affect our understanding of the universe?

The idea of a zero energy universe challenges our current understanding of the universe and raises questions about the balance of positive and negative energies and the nature of gravity. It also has implications for the ultimate fate of the universe and the possibility of a cyclical or eternal universe. However, more research and evidence are needed to fully understand the concept and its implications.

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