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closed universe

cosmology
Also known as: bound universe

Quick Summary

A closed universe is a cosmological model where galaxies, after initially moving apart, will eventually come back together. This concept is part of the Friedmann-Lemaître models, which describe an evolving universe originating from a Big Bang.1

In this model, the universe's fate—whether it expands forever or collapses—depends on its average density of matter and radiation. If this density exceeds a specific value, known as the closure density, gravity will eventually halt the expansion and cause a collapse, referred to as a "big squeeze". The closure density is calculated as 3H02/8πG, where H0 is Hubble's constant and G is the gravitational constant.2

Current observations suggest that the universe's average density, including dark matter and dark energy, is close to this closure density, making its ultimate fate a subject of ongoing study.23

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