Scientists: the universe 30 times closer to the finale
February 2, 2010 – 11:14 pm
With an Australian professor Charlie Laynuivera had a new, refined calculation of the entropy of the universe and concluded that previous results are wrong in order: the universe 30 times closer to the finale than assumed until now. In other words, the entropy of the universe is 30 times higher.
«We took into account the contribution to the entropy, which makes the whole observable Universe, including stars, their radiation, black holes, the microwave background … We even included in the calculation of the contribution of dark matter – quotes portal “Popular Mechanics” one of the authors of the work – but with all that, the universe is dominated by the entropy of supermassive black holes. Using the latest data on their number and size, we found that due to their contribution to the entropy of the visible universe is 30 times higher than was assumed in previous studies ».
« Contrary to ordinary opinion , the existence of complex structures of the universe, from galaxies and stars, to tropical storms and kangaroos, have a fairly simple main result, an increase of disorder, ie, the entropy of the universe – adds Dr Laynuiver – But to be honest, All these factors are practically can be dropped in comparison with the dominant entropic contribution of supermassive black holes. However, that is the contribution of these objects in the “aging” of the universe, maximum, said previous studies.
In accordance with the laws of thermodynamics, it is believed that the universe began there with low levels of entropy, and since this characteristic is continuously growing, is growing and will grow. And the number of “free”, ie suitable for the maintenance of the status of any of the physical processes of energy, with an increase in entropy decreases. When the number reaches its critical point, the universe is waiting for “heat death”. At least, if she, as a whole, subject to the principles of thermodynamics – in particular, if the universe is a closed system, although this question is extremely difficult.
Now, Australian physicists promise to clarify their calculations to see how close our world is to maximize its entropy, and how much time we have left to complete and inevitable end.
