The Evolution of Galactic Scale Cosmic Voids

In summary, "The Evolution of Galactic Scale Cosmic Voids" discusses the formation and growth of vast, empty regions in the universe known as cosmic voids. These voids are significant in understanding the large-scale structure of the cosmos, as they affect galaxy formation and distribution. The paper explores the processes that lead to the creation of voids, including gravitational dynamics and the influence of dark energy. It also examines how voids evolve over time, becoming larger and more pronounced as the universe expands, ultimately shaping the cosmic landscape and the behavior of matter within it.
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Suekdccia
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TL;DR Summary
Collapse and expansion of Galactic Scale Cosmic Voids
According to some papers I've found [1], [2] expanding voids can be found inside clouds of denser materials that can cause them to eventually collapse. I have a question about this:

Overdensities generally expand up to a given turnaround radius and then collapse. However, as the elements in the overdensity would have been gravitationally bound since the beginning, the expansion would not actually be driven by dark energy. The void however, would expand faster than the overdensity as the interior would have a very low density, and theoretically would not be gravitationally bound, so the expansion of the void would be driven by dark energy. If this is correct, when the void would collapse because of the surrounding overdensity, would the matter be "pushed" to collapse from a greater distance (as it would have been "moved" by dark energy), therefore gaining more kinetic energy than in the rest of the overdensity?

So, if the fate of a void inside an overdensity is ultimately collapse, as they expand more than the overdensity the radius of the void will grow more quickly. So, when it collapses, and the matter from the outskirts of the void smashes and collapses, shouldn't that region be hotter than the rest of the overdensity, as it run more distance until collapsing (therefore gaining more kinetic energy from potential energy)?


[1]: https://academic.oup.com/mnras/article/350/2/517/1115675

[2]: https://arxiv.org/abs/1501.02120
 
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The Cosmic Void/Vacuum in a cold, infinite, isotropic scene in which all galaxies evolve and die.
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FAQ: The Evolution of Galactic Scale Cosmic Voids

What are cosmic voids and how do they form?

Cosmic voids are vast, empty regions of space that contain very few galaxies compared to denser areas of the universe. They form as a result of the large-scale structure of the universe, where matter is distributed unevenly due to gravitational interactions. Over billions of years, regions with slightly lower density attract matter from surrounding areas, leading to the formation of these voids as galaxies cluster together in denser regions known as filaments.

How do cosmic voids influence galaxy formation and evolution?

Cosmic voids play a significant role in galaxy formation and evolution by affecting the distribution of matter and the gravitational forces at play. In these low-density regions, the gravitational pull is weaker, which can lead to slower star formation rates and different evolutionary pathways for galaxies. This can result in a distinct population of galaxies that may differ in size, morphology, and star formation activity compared to those in denser environments.

What is the significance of studying cosmic voids in cosmology?

Studying cosmic voids is important for understanding the large-scale structure of the universe and the underlying cosmological models. Voids provide insights into the distribution of dark matter and dark energy, as well as the overall dynamics of cosmic expansion. By examining the properties of voids, scientists can test predictions of the Lambda Cold Dark Matter (ΛCDM) model and explore alternative theories of gravity and cosmology.

How do cosmic voids evolve over time?

Cosmic voids evolve through a process known as gravitational instability. Initially, these regions are nearly empty, but as the universe expands and matter clumps together, voids can grow larger as surrounding matter is pulled into denser regions. Over time, the boundaries of voids can become more defined, and the voids themselves may merge or change shape due to the dynamic nature of cosmic structures. This evolution is influenced by factors such as dark energy and the overall expansion rate of the universe.

What observational techniques are used to study cosmic voids?

Observational techniques for studying cosmic voids include galaxy redshift surveys, which map the three-dimensional distribution of galaxies in the universe. These surveys help identify voids by analyzing the spatial distribution of galaxies and measuring their distances. Additionally, techniques such as weak gravitational lensing and the cosmic microwave background radiation can provide indirect evidence of voids and their properties, allowing scientists to infer their influence on the surrounding cosmic structure.

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