Is the universe leaking energy? (cover story)

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  • Author(s): Davis, Tamara M.
  • Source:
    Scientific American. Jul2010, Vol. 303 Issue 1, p38-38. 8p.
  • Additional Information
    • Subject Terms:
      REDSHIFT; DOPPLER effect; EXPANDING universe; ASTROPHYSICS; ENERGY dissipation; PHOTONS
    • Abstract:
      The article presents an overview of the impact that the expansion of the universe has on the lights of galaxies that are receding from the universe. Scientists have determined that as the universe expands and the galaxies recede their lights become redshifted and become less energetic as a result. They have concluded that while the redshifting appears to indicate that energy is being lost, in reality the energy of individual photons included in the process is being conserved, which is in concordance with a basic law of physics that suggests that total energy must always be conserved. INSETS: WHY ENERGY SEEMS TO DISAPPEAR;A MATTER OF CHANGING GEOMETRY;MORE COSMIC PUZZLES.