The future of the overall universe,in terms of its ultimate evolution and whether it will expand forever or eventually contract again,is determined by which of its parameters?
A) the present volume of the universe
B) the amount of matter and energy within it
C) the intensity of cosmic microwave background radiation
D) the temperature of the gas within it

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ultimate fate of the universe is determined by the amount of matter and energy it contains. If there is enough matter, the gravitational attraction will eventually halt the expansion and cause the universe to contract again (the "Big Crunch"). If there is not enough matter, the universe will continue to expand forever. The present volume, intensity of cosmic microwave background radiation, and temperature of the gas within it do not determine the ultimate fate of the universe.

The Future of the Overall Universe,in Terms of Its Ultimate