Sean Carroll examines why the cosmological constant is a perfectly good explanation for the accelerating universe, but may not be the right one. He explores what it would take to invent a plausible theory of dynamical dark energy, including hurdles from particle physics. The episode covers possible experimental tests that could distinguish a true constant from evolving dark energy, and the alternative approach of modifying gravity instead of adding a new energy source.
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Highlights
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The cosmological constant may not be the final answer
The cosmological constant is a sufficient explanation for the observed acceleration of the universe, but it might not be the correct physical explanation.