Is the CERN particle accelerator risking a phase change in the Universe?

In summary, the conversation revolved around the concerns of a phase change in the universe due to the energy levels of the CERN particle accelerator and the possibility of causing a chain reaction event. However, it was mentioned that similar experiments have been conducted before without any major consequences. The conversation also touched on the nostalgia for a more colorful star field and the belief in Santa Claus. Ultimately, the conclusion was that there is no imminent danger and it is important to ask questions and seek expert opinions rather than being influenced by alarmists.
  • #1
ptalar
69
0
Phase Change of the Universe??

I was listening to Coast to Coast radio this morning on the way to work and they had some scientist on who was saying that the when the CERN particle accelerator is turned on in November 2007 one of its main goals is to find the Higgs Boson particle.

However, he went on to say that some scientists fear that when we do this we may cause a phase change in the Universe since we are trying to approximate the conditions an instant after the big bang. Apparently, at the energy levels the accelerator will see, it may cause a chain reaction type event. Although a low probability he said it is still a risk because we are going into uncharted waters.

The scientist went on to say that we would not even know it happened because we would die instantly as the Universe instantly changed.

This is the first time I heard of this concern. Any thoughts?
 
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  • #2
WTF?

These sort of experiments have been going on for a while now. Nothing crazy has happened thus far.
 
  • #3
Arithus said:
WTF?

These sort of experiments have been going on for a while now. Nothing crazy has happened thus far.


Ok. I was just curious and this was the first time I had heard that any experiments we are doing had those kinds of risks.

Thanks,

Phil
 
  • #4
Arithus said:
WTF?

These sort of experiments have been going on for a while now. Nothing crazy has happened thus far.

Well I don't know about you, but I really miss the comfort of the purple shine of the star field against the greenness of deep space.

Ever since that experiment last year, all we get is this ugly white stars against a ... what would you call that? ... black? ... background.
 
  • #5
And where oh where has our beloved flying spaghetti monster gone?
 
  • #6
selfAdjoint said:
And where oh where has our beloved flying spaghetti monster gone?


Yes Yes Yes. And I believe in Santa Claus.

I was just asking a dumb question. You would be surprised how many problems get solved by asking dumb questions.

I was interested in what the experts thought and now I know.
 
  • #7
No, we're not in danger. Alarmists are much better off looking to our politicians than our particle accelerators. Let's not take this any further.
 

FAQ: Is the CERN particle accelerator risking a phase change in the Universe?

What is a phase change of the universe?

A phase change of the universe refers to a major transformation or transition in the structure and behavior of the universe as a whole. It is often described as a shift from one state to another, such as from expansion to contraction or from a hot, dense state to a cooler, more diffuse state.

What causes a phase change of the universe?

The cause of a phase change of the universe is still a topic of debate among scientists. Some theories suggest that it could be triggered by the amount of matter and energy in the universe, while others propose that it could be due to the effects of dark energy or the existence of multiple universes.

How often does a phase change of the universe occur?

The frequency of phase changes in the universe is not well understood. Some scientists believe that it may occur in cycles, with an estimated time frame of billions of years between each phase change. However, more research is needed to determine the frequency of these events.

What evidence do we have for past phase changes of the universe?

There is currently no conclusive evidence for past phase changes of the universe. However, scientists have observed cosmic microwave background radiation, which is believed to be leftover radiation from the Big Bang, which could potentially provide clues about the early stages of the universe and any possible phase changes.

How does a phase change of the universe impact life on Earth?

The impact of a phase change of the universe on life on Earth is uncertain. Some theories suggest that it could lead to drastic changes in the physical laws of the universe, making life as we know it impossible. However, others propose that life could adapt and evolve to survive in different conditions. Further research is needed to fully understand the potential effects of a phase change of the universe on life on Earth.

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