Interactive Big Bang Simulator : An Interactive Model of Cosmic Expansion

Big Bang Simulator

Developed By: Ir. MD Nursyazwi

Instructions on How to Use

This academic simulator provides a simplified model of the universe's expansion, drawing parallels to the Big Bang theory. Users can manipulate key parameters to observe their effect on the simulated particle dynamics. To begin your simulation, follow these steps:

1. Adjust Initial Parameters: Use the sliders in the "Data Input" section to set the initial number of particles, the energy of the initial expansion event (represented as Initial Velocity), and the rate of expansion.
2. Initiate the Simulation: Click the "Run Simulation" button to begin the visual representation of cosmic inflation and subsequent expansion on the canvas.
3. Observe and Analyze: As the simulation runs, monitor the real-time data output, which tracks average particle velocity and distance. The "Graphs and Charts" section will dynamically plot these metrics for long-term analysis.
4. Reset and Repeat: You can pause or reset the simulation at any time to adjust parameters and conduct new experiments.

Data Input

Number of Particles: 100

Initial Velocity (in terms of c): 0.5

Expansion Rate Factor: 0.05

Graphical Simulation

Legend

The visual elements in this simulation are analogies for cosmic phenomena:

• Particles: Each glowing dot represents a galaxy or a cluster of galaxies. Their movement illustrates the expansion of the universe.
• Particle Color: The colors are randomly generated for visual variety and do not represent a specific physical property like temperature or composition.
• Particle Size & Glow: The varying size and glow of the particles are analogous to the different sizes and brightness of galaxies and stars in the universe.

Data Output

Simulation Time (s) 0.00

Average Distance (pixels) 0.00

Average Velocity (in terms of v/c) 0.00

Graphs and Charts

The graph below visualizes the average distance of particles from the center over time, illustrating the expansion dynamics.

Science Explanations

This simulator models key concepts of physical cosmology, specifically the expansion of the universe as described by the Big Bang theory. It provides a visual analogy for complex phenomena.

Cosmic Expansion and Hubble's Law

The simulation illustrates a core tenet of modern cosmology: the universe is not static but expanding. Each particle in the model represents a galaxy or a cluster of galaxies, and their outward motion from a central point is analogous to the expansion of spacetime itself. This phenomenon is quantified by Hubble's Law, which states that the velocity (v) of a galaxy moving away from an observer is directly proportional to its distance (d) from that observer.

The formula for this is: v = H0 * d

Where H0 is the Hubble constant. In this simulation, our "Initial Velocity" parameter provides a conceptual representation of the energy imparted during the primordial event, while the "Expansion Rate Factor" models the ongoing, accelerating expansion of the simulated space.

Particle-Based Analogy

While the actual Big Bang did not involve an explosion of matter into pre-existing space from a central point, this particle-based model is a powerful pedagogical tool. It helps to visualize the concept of all points in space moving away from all other points. The collective outward motion of the particles from a common origin represents the uniform expansion of the universe at a macro scale. The model simplifies the universe's initial state as a singularity, from which all matter and energy emerged, and highlights the subsequent evolution of cosmic structures over time.

Temperature and State

In the real universe, the initial expansion was accompanied by a rapid decrease in temperature. This cooled state allowed for the formation of subatomic particles and, later, atoms. The simulation simplifies this by focusing on spatial dynamics, but in a more complex model, the particle's "temperature" would be inversely proportional to its distance from the origin. This relationship is critical for understanding the formation of the first light elements via Big Bang nucleosynthesis.

Religious Context: Interpretations in Cosmology

The concepts of a universe created from a single point and its subsequent expansion have been points of reflection in various religious traditions. The following verses from the Quran are often cited by some in modern times to describe cosmological events:

Quran 21:30: "Have those who disbelieved not considered that the heavens and the earth were a joined entity, and We separated them and made from water every living thing? Then will they not believe?"

Quran 51:47: "And the heaven We constructed with strength, and indeed, We are its expander."

These verses are interpreted by some as referring to the initial separation of the universe from a singular point and its ongoing expansion, concepts that align with the scientific understanding of the Big Bang.

References

The concepts presented in this simulator are based on established principles of astrophysics and cosmology. For further academic inquiry, please consult the following foundational works:

• Al-Quran
• Liddle, A. R. (2015). An Introduction to Modern Cosmology. John Wiley & Sons.
• Peebles, P. J. E. (1993). Principles of Physical Cosmology. Princeton University Press.
• Hawking, S. W. (1988). A Brief History of Time. Bantam Books.

Other Simulators

For a deeper understanding of related physical phenomena, consider exploring the following academic simulators:

• Quranic Verse and Scientific Fact: An exploration of how certain verses in the Quran are interpreted to align with modern scientific theories, such as the Big Bang and cosmic expansion.
• Martin Rees's "Just Six Numbers" and its cosmological implications: A review and analysis of Martin Rees's book, which examines the six dimensionless constants that govern the physical laws of the universe.
• The Transformative Role of Online Simulators: An article discussing the evolution of online simulators and its role in making knowledge and skills accessible to a global audience.
• Alison Certificate Courses: A platform offering free, globally-recognized online courses in various fields, with options for certificates and diplomas.