Scientists Analyze 'Long Freeze' as Potential End of Universe According to Holographic Dark Energy Theory

There has been much speculation about the eventual demise of the universe among scientists, with various theories presented over the years. A recent paper has introduced a new perspective on the end of existence, drawing on a concept known as "holographic dark matter."

Theoretical Framework

The "holographic dark matter" theory suggests that gravity and space are merely a quantum illusion, masking our true two-dimensional reality. This thought-provoking idea falls within the broader scope of theoretical frameworks, including string theory. Dark energy, a force responsible for the universe's expansion, is believed to constitute approximately 70 percent of its total mass, yet its true nature remains elusive, making direct observation impossible.

Implications of Holographic Dark Matter

In a recent paper published on the preprint server arXiv, scientists delved into the potential outcomes of the "holographic dark matter" theory, aiming to explore how the universe might meet its end if these hypothetical assumptions were verified. According to their analysis, as dark energy gradually dissipated throughout the cosmos, dark matter would follow suit, ultimately bringing the universe to a standstill. This scenario has been dubbed the "long freeze," representing a period in which the universe's expansion ceases, leading to the gradual extinction of existing stars due to the absence of new energy sources. Eventually, even the last remaining black holes, typically regarded as the last vestiges of matter in the universe, would succumb to oblivion.

The "long freeze" becomes distinct from another theoretical end state known as the "big freeze," which also entails a phase of escalating entropy but persists in expansion. In contrast, the "long freeze" attains a defined structure after halting its expansion, leading to a state where the cosmos remains in a suspended, unchanging condition. While this conceptual differentiation may seem inconsequential in the grand scheme of cosmic fate, it provides valuable insights for scientists seeking to navigate the complexities of cosmological theories and their corresponding implications.

Fortunately for the inhabitants of this universe, the Stelliferous Era, characterized by the formation of stars, is not set to conclude for an estimated another 100 trillion years. Following the Stelliferous Era, the universe will transition into the Degenerate Era and subsequently the Black Hole Era, with the latter projected to unfold approximately 10 duodecillion to 1 googol years after the influential Big Bang event. This temporal expanse suggests that the cosmos still possesses a considerable reservoir of potential.