PBS Space Time Season 2019 Episode 11 The Edge of an Infinite Universe

PBS Space Time is back with another thrilling episode of space exploration and astronomical phenomena. In season 2019 episode 11, titled "The Edge of an Infinite Universe," the show explores the mysteries of our universe and investigates the idea of infinity.

The episode delves into the concept of infinity and its implications in our understanding of the universe. The show begins with a discussion of black holes and their role in shaping the universe. The host explains how black holes are considered to be infinite density objects, thus bending the fabric of space-time to create their own gravity fields.

From black holes, the show moves on to discuss the big bang theory and how it led to the idea of the universe being infinite. The host explains that the big bang theory states that the universe began as a singularity and then expanded rapidly, leading to the formation of galaxies and other celestial bodies. However, the question that arises is what exists beyond the limits of the universe? Is there a boundary to the universe or does it go on infinitely?

To answer this question, the show introduces different theories and concepts that try to explain the universe's vastness and infinite nature. One such concept is the idea of multiple universes or the multiverse theory. The theory states that our universe is just one of many existing in a vast multiverse, and each universe can have different physical laws and properties.

The show then moves on to tackle the idea of the universe being flat or curved. The host explains that if the universe is flat, it would go on infinitely in all directions, but if it is curved, it would wrap around itself like a sphere. The concept of the universe being curved is introduced by the famous cosmologist, Andrei Linde. He proposes that the universe's shape can be described by a donut-like structure, which warps space-time and creates a closed universe with no boundary.

To further explain the concept of infinity, the show introduces the difference between countable and uncountable infinity. The host uses the example of counting the numbers between 1 and 2 to illustrate the difference. While the countable infinity includes all the numbers that can be counted, the uncountable infinity includes all the numbers that cannot be counted, such as irrational numbers.

The episode concludes by summarizing the different concepts that explain the universe's infinite nature, including the multiverse, the curved universe theory, and the concept of infinity itself. The host leaves us pondering the implications of these theories on the way we view the universe and our place in it.

In conclusion, "The Edge of an Infinite Universe" is a thought-provoking and enlightening episode that explores the mysteries of the universe and our perception of infinity. It delves into complex theories and concepts in an easy-to-understand manner, making it accessible to everyone interested in space and astrophysics. The episode is a must-watch for anyone curious about the universe's vastness and the mysteries that lie beyond our perception.