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Chapter 27: Problem 4

Explain why the inflationary model does not violate the principle that the speed of light in a vacuum represents the ultimate speed limit.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The Inflationary Model does not violate the speed of light limit because the inflation pertains to the expansion of space itself, not the movement through space. The speed of limit as stated by the principle of relativity is related to movement through space, thus they are fundamentally different and there is no violation.

Step by step solution

01

Establish understanding of the principle of light speed limit

Begin by acknowledging the postulate in special relativity that the speed of light in a vacuum is the ultimate speed limit within the universe. Any physical object, information or theoretical entity cannot travel faster than light, according to this principle. The speed of light in a vacuum is represented by the symbol 'c' and is approximately \(3 \times 10^{8}\) meters per second.
02

Explain the Inflationary Model

Secondly, review the Inflationary Model of the universe. The model posits that the universe underwent a phase of rapid expansion, known as inflation, fractions of a second after the Big Bang. This inflation corresponds to the expansion of space itself, not movement of galaxies through space. It is also key to note that the inflation does not involve tangible entities or information traveling through space.
03

Explain the distinction between moving through space and space itself expanding

The principle of light speed limit refers specifically to the speed at which entities can move through space, not the rate at which space itself can expand. By drawing this distinction, it becomes clear that these two phenomena are fundamentally different and should not be confused.
04

Conclude

Conclude that the Inflationary Model does not violate the principle regarding the speed of light, as the inflationary expansion of the universe represents the expansion of space, not movement through space. As such, it does not conflict with the speed of light as a limit.

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