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dirty dan
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how can the universe be expanding if matter nor mass can be created?
How Does Space Expand? Understanding Universe Expansion
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In summary, the expansion of the universe does not involve the creation of matter or mass, but rather the existing matter getting further apart. While matter and mass can be created or destroyed through various processes, the mechanics of how space expands are still not fully understood.
- #2
Chalnoth
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Because the expansion doesn't involve creating matter. It's just existing matter getting further apart.dirty dan said:
That said, matter/mass can certainly be created or destroyed. Mass is a form of energy, and other forms of energy can be converted to mass under the right conditions. When heavy particles decay or matter and anti-matter meet and are annihilated, mass is also destroyed.
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Fervent Freyja
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The truth, there is no satisfying explanation. They really don't understand the mechanics behind how space expands... 
Related to How Does Space Expand? Understanding Universe Expansion
1. What is the concept of space expansion?
The concept of space expansion refers to the idea that the universe is constantly growing and stretching, causing the distances between galaxies and other celestial bodies to increase over time. This expansion is believed to have started with the Big Bang and is supported by various astronomical observations and theories.
2. How does the universe expand?
The universe expands due to a phenomenon called "cosmic inflation." This is a period of rapid expansion that occurred shortly after the Big Bang and is believed to have been driven by dark energy. As the universe continues to expand, the space between galaxies and other objects grows, causing the expansion of the universe.
3. What evidence supports the theory of space expansion?
One of the main pieces of evidence for space expansion is the observation of redshift in the light from distant galaxies. This redshift is caused by the stretching of space, which causes the wavelength of light to appear longer. Other evidence includes the cosmic microwave background radiation and the distribution of galaxies in the universe.
4. Is space expansion the same as the expansion of the universe?
Yes, space expansion and the expansion of the universe are often used interchangeably. However, it is important to note that while the universe is expanding, space itself is not expanding into anything. Instead, the fabric of space is stretching, causing the expansion of the universe.
5. Will the universe continue to expand forever?
There is currently no definitive answer to this question. Some theories suggest that the universe will continue to expand forever, while others propose that the expansion may eventually slow down and reverse, leading to a "Big Crunch." It is an ongoing area of research and debate in the field of cosmology.
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