27 Sep 11
People have estimated the universe to be: 40 Billion light years.
That would be about 234,788,544,000,000,000,000,000 Miles.
Two hundred thirty-four sextillion, seven hundred eighty-eight Quintillion, five hundred forty-four Quadrillion miles from one end to the other.
186,000 x 86,400=16,070,400,000 x 365.25 going off over earths years:
5,869,713,600,000*40 Billion= 2 to the 23rd.
29 Sep 11
Originally posted by RBHILLIt is impossible to measure the size of the universe unless you know where the edge of the universe stops.
People have estimated the universe to be: 40 Billion light years.
That would be about 234,788,544,000,000,000,000,000 Miles.
Two hundred thirty-four sextillion, seven hundred eighty-eight Quintillion, five hundred forty-four Quadrillion miles from one end to the other.
186,000 x 86,400=16,070,400,000 x 365.25 going off over earths years:
5,869,713,600,000*40 Billion= 2 to the 23rd.
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30 Sep 11
Originally posted by Dasawhy does it need to have an edge?
It is impossible to measure the size of the universe unless you know where the edge of the universe stops.
If it curves back on itself it would be both finite and have no edges.
And you could ascertain its approximate size from its curvature.
Also usually when people talk about the size of the universe, they mean visible universe.
Which has a visible edge.
13.something billion light years away.
30 Sep 11
Originally posted by googlefudgeI don't believe that. If there are multiple 'universes' then yes, most physics discussions regarding size would focus on the current one. However, if there are parts of the universe we reside in that we cannot ever see due to expansion being faster than the speed of light then those parts would be included in the phrase 'the size of the universe' unless clearly stated otherwise.
Ok in physics discussions about the size of the universe are typically about the visible universe.
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30 Sep 11
Originally posted by twhiteheadI really don't care if you believe it or not.
I don't believe that. If there are multiple 'universes' then yes, most physics discussions regarding size would focus on the current one. However, if there are parts of the universe we reside in that we cannot ever see due to expansion being faster than the speed of light then those parts would be included in the phrase 'the size of the universe' unless clearly stated otherwise.
It is true in my experience, which as there is no polling on the matter is all anyone can go on.
It's mainly due to saying just 'universe' instead of 'visible universe', is easier.
And physicists tend to be as lazy as the next guy when talking about stuff.
Given that it is usually contextually apparent in the conversation which meaning you are using.
Of course in papers and formal discussions the qualifier would typically be included.