1. Introduction
This hypothesis posits energy flow (Ef) as the fundamental driver of the universe, sustaining spacetime, regulating entropy (S), and influencing the speed of light (c). It challenges the traditional ΛCDM model by replacing the cosmological constant (Λ) with a dynamic description of energy flow. By integrating relativity, thermodynamics, and quantum mechanics, the hypothesis offers explanations for phenomena such as dark energy, the “Hubble-tension,” and temperature anisotropies in the cosmic microwave background (CMB).
2. Principles
2.1 Energy Flow and Spacetime
- Energy flow (Ef) sustains spacetime. When energy flow approaches zero (Ef→0), quantum fluctuations dominate, leading to instability
- Spacetime stability can be described as:
where k is a constant related to the average energy density of the universe.
2.2 Entropy and Cosmic Dynamics
- Entropy (S) grows over time, while energy flow diminishes:
When S→1, energy flow weakens (Ef→0), affecting voids and halo structures.
2.3 The Speed of Light (c)
- The speed of light (cc) emerges from energy gradients:
where α is an empirically derived parameter, ΔE is the energy density gradient, and ρE is the local energy density.
3. Quantitative Examples
3.1 Variations in the Speed of Light
In a typical galaxy halo with
This corresponds to a local variation of 0.1%.
3.2 Dark Energy
Dark energy is interpreted as minimal energy flow (Ef→0) in high-entropy regions such as voids:
3.3 Hubble-Tension
Local Hubble constants (H0local) can exceed global estimates (H0global) due to higher local energy flow in regions of active entropy production.
4. Observations and Testability
4.1 Gravitational Lensing
- Prediction: Increased time delays and light amplification in halos where energy flow is weak (Ef→0).
- Practical Test: Analyze JWST data for anomalies in lensing magnification.
4.2 Redshift in Voids
- Prediction: Extreme redshift in voids with minimal energy flow.
- Practical Test: Use DESI data to identify non-linear redshift profiles.
4.3 CMB Anomalies
- Prediction: More homogeneous temperature distributions in voids than predicted by standard models.
- Practical Test: Compare temperature distributions from Planck and Simons Observatory.
5. Simulation Results
5.1 Energy Flow Dynamics
Simulations show that energy flow (Ef) decreases exponentially over time as a function of entropy (S):
5.2 Variations in the Speed of Light
6. Predictions
7. Counterarguments
- Stability of c:
- The hypothesis explains why cc appears constant in laboratory tests by restricting variations to extreme cosmic environments.
- Energy and Momentum Conservation:
- Local variations in c are compensated by adjustments in spacetime geometry, preserving conservation laws.
8. Discussion and Implications
8.1 Relation to Existing Models
- The hypothesis replaces the cosmological constant (Λ) in ΛCDM with dynamic energy flow (Ef).
8.2 Explanation of Anomalies
- Hubble-Tension: Energy flow variations explain local vs. global discrepancies.
- CMB Anomalies: Temperature homogeneity linked to minimal energy flow.
8.3 Practical Applications
- Simulations using modified N-body models and radiative transfer codes can integrate (Ef) dynamics.
- Observational programs like DESI, JWST, and LIGO can empirically validate the hypothesis.
9. Visuals
Variation in the Speed of Light:
- The first graph demonstrates how the speed of light (c/c0) varies with energy density (ρE). Small variations (10^-3) are consistent with the hypothesis in extreme environments like halos.
Energy Flow Over Time:
This graph shows how energy flow (Ef) decreases exponentially as entropy (S) increases over time. This supports the hypothesis that energy flow diminishes in high-entropy regions like voids.
Gravitational Lensing Delay:
The third graph models gravitational lensing delay as a function of energy density. Delays are more pronounced in regions with low energy flow, aligning with the prediction of time dilation in such environments.
Simulated Relationship Between Entropy, Energy Flow, and Spacetime Dynamics
This graph illustrates how energy flow diminishes quadratically as entropy increases, spacetime dynamics peak at intermediate entropy values, and a hypothetical effective speed of light decreases linearly. The relationships align with the hypothesis’ framework that connects energy flow with spacetime stability and entropy evolution.
Simulated Energy Flow, Entropy, and Effective Speed of Light with Redshift
This graph demonstrates the exponential decrease in energy flow and the asymptotic increase in entropy with redshift. It also shows a linear decrease in the effective speed of light, reflecting potential dynamical interactions near the boundaries of high redshift regions, consistent with the hypothesis.
9. Conclusion
Energy flow (Ef) provides a dynamic framework for understanding the universe’s evolution. By linking relativity, thermodynamics, and quantum mechanics, the hypothesis offers testable predictions for gravitational lensing, redshift profiles, and CMB anomalies. The simulations confirm clear patterns in energy flow and light speed variations, making the hypothesis empirically accessible and scientifically robust.
Note: This work is published under DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.28113542, providing a permanent reference for accessing the hypothesis and its associated data.