From: mk_thisisit
The multiverse theory posits the existence of not just one universe, but an infinite number of them, with new universes continuously being created [00:00:06]. This concept suggests that the number of universes and forms of matter could be infinite [00:00:15].
Evidence and Testability
Currently, the multiverse theory remains a hypothesis [00:03:56]. Concrete proof is needed for it to become a scientific fact [00:00:08]. It is suggested that dark matter could provide this evidence [00:00:11], [00:04:06]. Most of the universe is composed of dark matter, which is not made of atoms, but rather a new substance believed to be another “octave” of the string in string theory [00:04:36], [00:04:42], [00:05:07].
The multiverse theory is currently considered untestable [00:09:51].
Origin of Universes
The multiverse theory can be analogized with soap bubbles [00:02:43]. A soap bubble can collide with others, merge into larger bubbles, or burst into smaller ones [00:02:47]. This process is likened to the Big Bang, where collisions of these “bubbles” lead to the emergence and expansion of universes [00:02:54], [00:03:12], [00:03:15]. Our universe is one such bubble that expanded after an explosion [00:03:17], [00:22:22].
Connection to String Theory
The greatest challenge for quantum physics is the unification of quantum mechanics and relativity [00:01:00], [00:10:07]. String theory is currently the only theory capable of achieving this unification [00:01:11], [00:11:08]. However, string theory presents an issue: it has an infinite number of solutions [00:01:18], [00:01:55]. These solutions correspond to different courses of Big Bangs [00:03:35], which can occur at any moment [00:03:42]. The fundamental question for string theory is identifying which of these infinite solutions describes our particular universe [00:01:57], [00:02:00]. This requires a deeper understanding of the Big Bang [00:02:14].
String theory is also the only theory developed enough to explain not only protons and neutrons, but also dark matter [00:05:08].
Black Holes as Gateways
Some theories suggest that black holes could serve as gateways to other universes or dimensions [00:05:21], [00:05:31]. Albert Einstein was among the first to discuss this concept, suggesting in 1935 that a black hole might be a gateway to another universe, resembling a funnel with a neck [00:05:46], [00:05:56]. He connected two such funnels, implying another black hole on the other side [00:06:00], [00:06:07]. Today, these are known as Einstein-Rosen bridges, which are theoretical connections between universes [00:06:17], [00:06:20].
The Universe’s Demise and Escape
The universe is expanding [00:07:05]. According to some theories, this expansion will continue indefinitely, leading to the universe becoming progressively colder until everything freezes [00:07:14], [00:07:17]. The Earth is predicted to be absorbed by the sun in 5 billion years [00:00:18], [00:07:36]. When the sun dies, it will freeze, not burn [00:00:24], [00:07:40], [00:07:49]. Similarly, other stars will exhaust their nuclear energy and also turn into ice [00:07:59].
If the multiverse theory is correct, our universe will likely freeze [00:08:14], [00:08:17]. The only hypothetical way to avoid the ultimate death of our universe might be to escape from it [00:00:31], [00:08:26]. This could involve creating an artificial space-time tunnel to another “bubble” (universe) or building a “lifeboat” to transfer intelligent life from a dying universe to a young, new one [00:08:34], [00:08:40].
Multiverse vs. Simulation Theory
The multiverse theory differs from simulation theory [00:09:02]. Simulation theory, often depicted in science fiction like The Matrix, suggests that our reality is a programmed simulation where an external entity controls our existence [00:09:12], [00:09:20], [00:09:24]. However, this idea is thought to be inconsistent with quantum mechanics, particularly the uncertainty principle [00:10:11], [00:10:16]. A simulation theory like the Matrix is seen as a “Newtonian type theory” [00:10:24], whereas the universe is based on quantum mechanics [00:10:32].
Quantum mechanics, with its inherent uncertainty, allows for concepts like creativity, thinking, and consciousness, suggesting that consciousness might be a byproduct of quantum mechanics [00:19:06], [00:19:10], [00:19:17]. In contrast, a purely deterministic or “digital brain” would lack free will [00:18:59].
Dimensions in the Multiverse
Our perception of reality is limited by our three-dimensional existence [00:20:46], [00:20:49]. However, if string theory is correct, there could be 11 dimensions in hyperspace [00:21:13]. Some scientists believe there are over 20 dimensions [00:21:22]. String theory is stable in 10 and 11 dimensions but unstable in higher dimensions (e.g., 13, 14, 15) [00:21:26], [00:21:30]. This unique property makes string theory the only scientific theory that dictates its own dimensions [00:21:33], [00:21:37].
The Big Bang, according to string theory, is believed to have occurred in 11 dimensions [00:22:08], resulting in our three-dimensional universe as one expanding bubble [00:22:15].