vacuum energy

Scientific  

1. Background energy in a vacuum associated with constant vacuum fluctuations. Some astronomers believe vacuum energy to be the source of energy for the apparent acceleration of the expansion of the universe.

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Example Sentences

The term “vacuum energy” refers to the energy background that permeates the entire universe, within or outside of a vacuum.

From Salon

If the vacuum energy derived from quantum theory is correct, then something must be stifling this energy's effects on the expansion of space.

From Scientific American

In that case, cosmologists will have to explain what suppresses the influence of vacuum energy in the universe.

From Scientific American

Quantum mechanics suggests that the vacuum of empty space should contain a type of energy known as vacuum energy.

From Science Magazine

In 1966, Soviet physicist Erast Gliner showed that Einstein’s equations could also produce objects that to outside observers look and behave exactly like a black hole--yet are, in fact, giant balls of vacuum energy.

From Science Magazine