How the Universe Went from Smooth to Lumpy: The Modern Origins Story

The talk will provide an overview of the modern understanding of our origins in astrophysics.  The story begins in the infant universe, which we now know was remarkably smooth compared to what we see around us today, with only tiny differences in its properties from one part to another.  By contrast, in the present

universe there are enormous differences in the properties of matter in different locations:  some regions host planets, stars, and galaxies (and even humans!) while others are cold and mostly empty.   Dr. Quataert will describe how the universe has evolved to its current state, emphasizing how gravity reigns supreme and builds up the planets, stars, and galaxies required for biological evolution to proceed.  Finally he will show how, in addition to their scientific importance, these ideas also have far-reaching philosophical and religious implications.

Speaker: Dr. Eliot Quataert, UC Berkeley