Quantum Bounce: A Universe Without Singularity ⚡ экспресс
A rigorous formulation of the quantum Big Bounce is presented for a closed isotropic universe with a self-interacting scalar field and an ekpyrotic potential. In a covariant approach to minisuperspace, the quantum equivalence of parameterizations via the logarithmic scale factor and volume is demonstrated. The analogy between the Wheeler-DeWitt equation and the Klein-Gordon equation, together with the definition of asymptotic states, reveals two scenarios: one—with a fixed direction of internal time (as in loop cosmology), which shows divergence at high energies and requires regularization; the second—with time reversal (ekpyrotic), well-defined at all energies at first order in perturbation theory. Consequently, the Wheeler-DeWitt formalism by itself bypasses the cosmological singularity; it is expected that including high-energy corrections will reproduce the Big Bounce of the Ashtekar school.
A spring compressed to the limit breaks. Likewise, classical gravity theory leads to a singularity—a point where all laws break down. Quantum mechanics turns this end into an elastic bounce. Wheeler and DeWitt described the universe as a wave of probabilities. A new model applies this to space closed like a ball. Energy, like a built-in spring, makes it contract and expand.
Physicists discovered two scenarios. The first resembles the usual flow of time—expansion after contraction, as in some approaches. But at high energies, the spring 'jams': calculations require corrections.
The second scenario is elegant: the Big Bang becomes a Big Bounce, and time reverses. Past and future swap places. The bounce works on its own, without crutches.
The quantum world smooths out spacetime curvature in the infant universe. The idea can be tested via the cosmic microwave background—perhaps it hides ring-like patterns of gravitational waves.
🎯 According to one scenario, the universe arose from the collision of two three-dimensional membranes in a space with more dimensions.