The expansion of the universe and the measurement of its rate have long been subjects of fascination and study in cosmology. However, recent research has revealed a discrepancy in the measured values, a conundrum known as the “Hubble tension”. Different measurement methods have provided contradictory results, leaving scientists searching for an explanation.
In a groundbreaking study published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, researchers from the Universities of Bonn and St. Andrews propose a novel solution to this tension. By utilizing an alternative theory of gravity, they demonstrate that the contradictions in the measured values can be easily explained, effectively eliminating the Hubble tension.
Albert Einstein’s theory of gravity, which forms the basis of the standard model, assumes that gravitational forces behave in a certain way. However, the researchers suggest that gravity may behave differently than anticipated. They employ a modified theory of gravity called “modified Newtonian dynamics” (MOND), proposedthe Israeli physicist Prof. Dr. Mordehai Milgrom four decades ago.
In their computer simulation, the research teams from Bonn and St. Andrews show that MOND accurately predicts the existence of “bubbles” or under-densities in the distribution of matter. These bubbles have been observed in certain regions of space, including the area where the Earth is located.
The presence of these bubbles, where matter is relatively scarce compared to its surrounding regions, could explain the observed discrepancies in the rate of expansion of the universe. Galaxies within these bubbles tend to move away from us at a faster pace than expected.
If gravity indeed behaves according to Milgrom’s assumptions, the Hubble tension disappears. There would exist only one constant for the expansion of the universe, and the deviations observed in the measured values would be attributed to irregularities in the distribution of matter.
This alternative theory of gravity offers a fresh perspective on the expansion of the universe, highlighting the importance of considering different possibilities to fully understand the complexities of our cosmos.
FAQ:
Q: What is the Hubble tension?
A: The Hubble tension refers to the discrepancy in the measured values of the rate of expansion of the universe obtained through different measurement methods.
Q: What is the standard model of cosmology?
A: The standard model of cosmology is based on Albert Einstein’s theory of gravity and assumes that matter is evenly distributed in space.
Q: What is modified Newtonian dynamics (MOND)?
A: Modified Newtonian dynamics (MOND) is an alternative theory of gravity proposedProf. Dr. Mordehai Milgrom that suggests gravitational forces may behave differently than predictedEinstein’s theory.
Q: How does MOND explain the Hubble tension?
A: MOND predicts the existence of under-densities or “bubbles” in the distribution of matter, which can explain the observed discrepancies in the rate of expansion of the universe.
Shambhu Kumar is a science communicator, making complex scientific topics accessible to all. His articles explore breakthroughs in various scientific disciplines, from space exploration to cutting-edge research.
