Quantum Sound in the Fabric of the Universe ⚡ экспресс
In one approach to quantum gravity, spacetime is pictured as a condensate of quantum 'atoms' of geometry. For the first time, using the Bogoliubov method, scientists incorporated quantum fluctuations into such a condensate and uncovered collective excitations—akin to phonons in Bose condensates. In a cosmological model, this allowed them to calculate corrections to the Friedmann equations, which govern the universe’s expansion. These findings bridge the microscopic world of quantum geometry with cosmic dynamics and predict a brand-new class of quantum-gravitational phenomena.
The universe is not a solid monolith, but a canvas of countless quantum threads. Spacetime doesn't flow like water, but vibrates like a tapestry in the wind. For a long time, physicists only saw the overall pattern, neglecting the tremor of individual threads. But if you listen, this tremor merges into something like sound—not audible to the ear, but akin to a wave on a taut string. That's exactly what was described in a new work: the collective trembling of the universe's quantum threads. It resembles gravitational waves, only playing out at the micro level. Interestingly, this ripple slightly alters the pace at which the Universe expands. This was predicted by John Wheeler, and now the ideas developed by Carlo Rovelli are getting a precise framework. Someday, this barely perceptible ringing will be caught by telescopes—and we'll hear the quantum voice of the cosmos.
🎯 In a superfluid, sound doesn't fade—it becomes an endless echo.
🎬 The idea of quantum 'building blocks' of reality is explored in Greg Egan's science fiction novel 'Permutation City', where the universe is a giant cellular automaton.