Sean Carroll's Mindscape: Science, Society, Philosophy, Culture, Arts, and Ideas 240 | Andrew Pontzen on Simulations and the Universe
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Jun 19, 2023 Andrew Pontzen, a Professor of Cosmology at University College London and author of "The Universe in a Box," dives into the world of cosmology and computer simulations. He reveals how these simulations enhance our understanding of the universe, aiding in complex theories like the Big Bang and dark matter. Pontzen discusses groundbreaking discoveries from the James Webb Space Telescope and tackles philosophical questions about the nature of knowledge in the field. He also explores the emerging role of AI in cosmology and its ethical implications.
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Light Bulb Galaxy Simulation
- Before computers, an astronomer simulated merging galaxies using light bulbs as stars.
- He measured light intensity as a proxy for gravitational attraction, ingeniously predicting spiral arm formation.
CMB and Initial Conditions
- The cosmic microwave background (CMB) offers evidence for theories like cosmic inflation but doesn't provide direct initial conditions for universe simulations.
- Simulations need a 3D representation of the early universe, derived using physics and theories connected to CMB data.
Subgrid Simulations and Approximations
- Simulating the universe involves approximations and creativity due to its vast size and complexity.
- The "subgrid" problem arises because computers can only simulate so much; smaller-scale processes like cloud formation must be added manually.
