Re: FN-FORUM: OT: Friday funny, sort of, also kinda scary

date posted 11th November 2007 15:51

Ben wrote:
> I thought that the big bang was a classic example of
> equilibrium/thermodynamics at work - the universe started with a huge burst
> of concentrated energy, which continues to dissipate to its natural state of
> even energy distribution (equilibrium)?

There's some debate about whether the energy/mass level in the
universe is constant over time (time being another non-constant at the
universal level) but I was referring more to the bang itself which is
thought to have generated mass and energy, somewhat in contradiction
to the idea of equilibrium. It's Pandora's Box though, as that must
allow for the possibility of mass/energy being created and destroyed
(quantum foam is a fun idea that tries to balance the conservation
idea though).

> As the energy dissipates, the universe becomes "larger" and we move
> ultimately toward a "big chill" where there is not enough concentrated
> energy left to sustain life. What a sombre thought for Sunday afternoon! I
> blame Dawn's rantings!

Well there's still Christmas to look forward to ;o)