Big Bang vs Multiverse: Exploring the Debate

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between the big bang and the possibility of a multiverse. The first person states that the current big bang theory does not provide evidence for or against the existence of a multiverse. The second person adds that there is no definitive proof of anything outside of our observable universe. Others contribute to the conversation by discussing the concept of a singularity and the limitations of current mathematical models. Overall, the conversation suggests that while the big bang may represent the beginning of our observable universe, it is uncertain whether it is the absolute beginning of all space-time.
  • #1
Nervous
17
0
If the big bang occurs at the first moment of time, then how can there be a multiverse?
 
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  • #2
Nervous said:
If the big bang occurs at the first moment of time, then how can there be a multiverse?
Well, basically, there was a beginning to our region of the universe, but that doesn't say anything about what exists beyond our region.
 
  • #3
(1) The current big bang theory is supported by a mathematical analysis that breaks down if taken back to t=0, so we say that there IS no such think and t=0 or t<0 BUT ... that's just an artifact of the model. It is not absolutely proven that these things don't exist and there are other models that suggest, or even state, that they DO exist.

(2) To add to what Chalnoth said, we don't have definitive proof of anything outside our own observable universe in either time OR space. All else is conjecture. (It IS, I believe, very GOOD conjecture though)
 
  • #4
So it's only the beginning of the space-time within the universe.
 
  • #5
well I think the statement should be a bit stonger than that. It is the beginning of space-time in the universe AS WE KNOW it (and as our math models are able to describe it).

There is no proof that it is NOT the beginning of space-time PERIOD, so until we know otherwise ...
 
  • #6
all of which statements are nonsensical on both ends. The first person saying there can be only one is wrong and the 2nd person saying there MUST be more than one is wrong. Had he said there MAY be more than one, THEN it would be logical.
 
  • #7
The has been a post deletion, which makes my post #6 nonsensical. I would appreciate it if the moderators would add some comment when they remove a post.
 
  • #8
Nervous...we live in a universe that supposedly started with a big bang. That doesn't mean that a new big bang within the "spaces in-between spaces" is occurring right now...and now...and now. As I type this, many different universes may be filling up with their own space and time. This is why many refer to everything collectively as a multiverse.
 
  • #9
I think it's more accurate to term it "metaverse" personally, but to each their own.

In a very real way, the Big Bang represents a time where all the information about everything that we can see was condensed to a single point and normalized. We don't know anything about "before" that because all the information of it was normalized into something homogenous. It could be an absolute beginning, or it could not. We don't know, because that information was destroyed in the formation of the Universe we live in.
 
  • #10
JordanL said:
In a very real way, the Big Bang represents a time where all the information about everything that we can see was condensed to a single point and normalized.
Well, it never was a single point. Our observable universe was contained in a very small, high-density, high-temperature region. But not infinitely-small.
 
  • #11
Chalnoth said:
Well, it never was a single point. Our observable universe was contained in a very small, high-density, high-temperature region. But not infinitely-small.

Ah, but the math does not accept t = 0. :)

I didn't mean to state that as a fact. It is an interpretation of t = 0... that is, the singularity concept.

You're right though. So long as spacetime has existed, the Universe has not been a single point.
 

FAQ: Big Bang vs Multiverse: Exploring the Debate

What is the Big Bang theory?

The Big Bang theory is the prevailing scientific model for the origins of the universe. It states that approximately 13.8 billion years ago, all matter and energy in the universe was condensed into an infinitely small point, known as a singularity. This singularity then rapidly expanded, creating the universe as we know it.

What is the multiverse theory?

The multiverse theory is the idea that there are multiple universes, each with its own set of physical laws and properties. This theory suggests that our universe is just one of many, and that there may be an infinite number of universes beyond our own.

How do these theories differ?

The main difference between the Big Bang theory and the multiverse theory is in their explanation for the origins of the universe. The Big Bang theory proposes a single, rapid expansion of the universe, while the multiverse theory suggests that our universe is just one of many, and that there may be an ongoing process of universe creation.

Is there evidence for either theory?

Both the Big Bang and multiverse theories have evidence to support them. The Big Bang theory is supported by observations such as the cosmic microwave background radiation and the expansion of the universe. The multiverse theory is supported by theoretical models and mathematical equations, but there is currently no direct observational evidence for it.

Can both theories coexist?

Some scientists believe that both the Big Bang and multiverse theories can coexist, as they may be describing different aspects of the universe. The Big Bang theory explains the origins of our universe, while the multiverse theory suggests the existence of other universes beyond our own. However, there is still much debate and research needed to fully understand and reconcile these two theories.

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