Rising Complexity of Universe

This short introduction text to the formation of the universe, explains the journey from simplicity to complexity, tracing the evolution of existence within the framework of time and space. It provides a concise overview of the formation of stars, galaxies, the solar system, and Earth, tracing their origins back to the Big Bang.

At the genesis, simplicity reigned supreme. However, propelled by the law of entropy, the second law of thermodynamics, existence evolved from order to disorder, transitioning from simplicity to complexity.

The Biggest Bang

The Big Bang theory is the leading explanation for the formation of the universe. It proposes that approximately 13.8 billion years ago, the universe originated from a hot and dense singular point that exploded, expanding at a speed faster than light.

The Cosmic Background Radiation reveals minor fluctuations across the whole celestial expanse.

During the early stages of the universe, known as the “Dark Ages,” matter and temperature were uniformly distributed. This period was characterized by the absence of observable light, with only the most fundamental particles—neutrons, protons, and electrons—present. Despite this uniformity, subtle changes occurred in certain regions due to quantum fluctuations. Studies of cosmic background radiation revealed gravitational anomalies, allowing scientists to map regions of higher temperature and density.

Image captured by the Hubble Space Telescope depicting a star-forming.

Spectacular Genesis: Birth of Stars

Approximately 380,000 years after the birth of the universe, as temperatures cooled, electrons and protons merged to create hydrogen and helium. In regions where gravity acted more strongly on these elements, matter began to coalesce, gradually intensifying both temperature and gravitational pull. In certain areas, temperatures soared to 10 million degrees Celsius, prompting the ignition of the universe’s inaugural stars.

The most extensive visible-light image of the cosmos by the Hubble Space Telescope.

Aglow Galaxies

The emergence of stars catalyzed the formation of galaxies and clusters, eventually culminating in the creation of superclusters. This proliferation of cosmic structures injected vibrancy and dynamism into a previously monotonous universe.

The Elements of the Periodic Table

As giant stars near the end of their lifespan, they deplete their energy reserves and undergo a dramatic collapse, culminating in a spectacular explosion known as a supernova. These explosive events are responsible for synthesizing elements beyond hydrogen and helium, contributing to the diversity of elements found in the periodic table.

The sequential process of solar system formation, commencing with the initial small photo at the top.

Formation of the Solar System

While various theories exist regarding the formation of the Sun, the prevailing consensus points to its emergence following a supernova explosion. After this cataclysmic event, surrounding materials coalesced due to electrostatic forces, giving rise to larger celestial bodies. Through a process of collisions and accretion, these celestial bodies gradually formed planets, ultimately resulting in the formation of our solar system.

The formation of our planet, Earth

Our planet, Earth, began to take shape through collisions between proto-planets. Initially, it existed as a seething mass of molten rock and metal. Over time, as it gradually cooled down, its surface solidified, giving rise to the diverse landscapes we see today.

What was the origin of water on Earth?

Various theories exist regarding the formation of water on Earth. Among them, the most widely

accepted suggests that water’s molecular structure enables its existence on our planet. Another theory proposes that water was introduced to Earth through impacts from comets carrying ice. Furthermore, this influx of water was instrumental in the emergence of life, providing the essential ingredient necessary for the sustenance of living organisms.

Additionally, the formation of our Moon was a result of a colossal collision with an object similar in size to Mars. This event not only shaped the lunar landscape but also played a significant role in stabilizing Earth’s rotation and influencing its tides.

This short introductory text on the formation of the Cosmos will be followed by two more texts:  Rising Complexity of Life and Rising Complexity of Humanity.

References

• Choi. C.Q., Harvey A. (2022, September 26). Stars: facts about stellar formation, history and classification. Space.com. https://www.space.com/57-stars-formation-classification-and-constellations.html
• Christian D., et al. Big History. [MOOC]. Big History Project. https://bhp-public.oerproject.com/
• Howell E., Dobrijevik D. (2022, January 28). What is the cosmicwave background? Space.com. https://www.space.com/33892-cosmic-microwave background.html
• NASA. (2024, February). Earth. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration. https://science.nasa.gov/earth/facts/
•  NASA. (2024, February). Our solar system: facts. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration. https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/facts/
• Tilmann N.T. (2022, April 08). How did Earth form? Space.com. https://www.space.com/19175-how-was-earth-formed.html

Image Sources 

• file:///Users/user/Downloads/CMB.jpeg
• file:///Users/user/Downloads/CMB_Timeline300_no_WMAP.jpg
• file:///Users/user/Downloads/Hubble_ultra_deep_field-1.webp
• file:///Users/user/Downloads/L3QPpo6wTjkrxHDibXek4D-1200-80.jpeg
• file:///Users/user/Downloads/ae36e1ad-066c-436b-ad01-dc2337f208de.jpeg
• file:///Users/user/Downloads/zW9VpinCTGaMLg3zkrsWQX.jpg