Summary
In this episode of StarTalk, Neil deGrasse Tyson and Chuck Nice discuss their new book "Cosmic Queries" and are joined by guest Dr. Janna Levin, a professor of astronomy and physics, to discuss the mysteries of the universe. They delve into the dominance of dark matter and dark energy, which make up the majority of the universe and are invisible. They also discuss the possibility of a universe with equal amounts of matter and antimatter, which would not support life as we know it, and the concept of dark matter aliens. The hosts take questions from Patreon members and discuss the potential for a larger project to further our knowledge of the quantum world. They also explore the inefficiency of the universe being designed solely for human life.
The hosts discuss the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and its potential to discover dark matter at higher energy levels. They explain the energetics of the early universe and the potential for a more powerful collider to open up new doors to understanding the universe, including the possibility of a whole dark reality. The hosts also discuss the intersection between science and art and the Pioneer Works cultural center in Brooklyn, which brings science and art together in a free and open space for everyone.
Dr. Tyson and Dr. Levin answer various questions from listeners about physics and cosmology, including the concept of particles completing a theory and string theory. They delve into the idea of a quantum vacuum and the energy associated with it, as well as the relationship between quantum mechanics and the formation of space-time. They also address a question about whether quarks grow as the universe expands.
The hosts explore the concept of particles breaking apart and higher-dimensional objects existing beyond our three-dimensional universe. They compare the phenomenon of virtual particles popping in and out of existence to a 3D object passing through a 2D flatland and discuss the potential for faster-than-light travel. The episode ends with a discussion on calculating the energy of the vacuum and finding dark energy in the universe. Overall, the episode delves into fascinating and mind-bending concepts in astrophysics.
