|
|
The Question
(Submitted June 19, 2002)
I have been trying to understand the idea of an expanding Universe. As I
understand what I have read, this concept is based on relativity. In this
model, the universe should not be seen as simply a sphere with an expanding
radius but rather it should be thought of as space itself expanding. If
this is so, it would seem that even "local" space would be
expanding and therefore the dimensions at the atomic level would be
increasing (i.e., if the distance to a distant qalaxy doubles over
a few billion years, then atomic dimensions also double, atomic spectra
would shift, etc.) I assume that this is not so, but why?
(A reference to a good book or paper would be helpful)
The Answer
This is a good question --- a very short answer is that local forces
are dominant on the scale of atoms and they, rather than the large-scale
structure of space-time, determine the structure of an atom. Even on the
scale of galaxies, our own is being drawn toward Virgo cluster of galaxies.
The expansion of the universe becomes the dominant factor only on the largest
scales.
For a longer explanation, with references, see this page (part of the
Usenet physics FAQ):
http://math.ucr.edu/home/baez/physics/Relativity/GR/expanding_universe.html
Hope this helps,
Koji & Georgia
for "Ask a High Energy Astronomer"
|
