Why is the Universe expanding?

Answer 1

This is still unsolved
Based on observations scientists figured that the space itself is expanding. A theory states that a so called "Dark Energy" is present.
Experiments showed that vaccum isn't really empty. It seems that out of nothing particles emerge and vanish short after.
This process seems to expand space a tiny tiny bit each time it happens. And since space is hughe all these tiny little expansions cause space to expand the way we observe.
This was named "Dark Energy". And theres still no satisfying theory which explains why this happens.

Answer 2

The universe is the product of the big bang... or whatever updated version of it (ex. The Inflationary Universe). Essentially the universe is moving away from its point of origin when it sprang into existence. It contains enough outward energy to resist any of its gravitational forces, and thus expands. What will happen in the future is still theoretical, some say it will expand indefinitely, some say eventually the outward thrust would diminish and slowly the gravitational forces would start pulling the universe back towards it point of origin and create what is called the Cosmic Crunch.

Answer 3

Well, let's assume there are three possibilities:

1) The universe is expanding.

2) The universe is collapsing

3) The universe is stationary

Okay, let's consider case 3);

If the universe is stationary, the law of gravity says that every mass attracts every other mass, so it won't be long before we are in case 2)

For case 2), we are in trouble, because we are on a collision course with everything else!!

So, case 1) is the only case where humankind can feel any sense of relief. Which would you choose?

Answer 4

The main theory is that dark energy is causing the universe to expand. We know this because our sister galaxy "Andromeda" is flying towards us and we'll eventually collide. So, astronomers are still trying to figure out what "dark energy" is, but it's there and shows up on a lot of the space equiptment.

Answer 5

We know the universe is expanding because in every direction we look, the light from distant galaxies is red-shifted (the doppler effect), indicating that they are moving away from us.

Answer 6

Expanding into what? Where? All around the edges? I don't follow your logic

Answer 7

NOBODY knows for sure. By the way, if I looked like you, I'd rule too !!! Have fun.

Answer 8

Show me a source, you got me interested.

Answer 9

If its related to me... its just getting fat and lazy for the winter...lol