Physicists Speculate That, Early in Its History, the Universe Shifted

question 162

Multiple Choice

Physicists speculate that, early in its history, the universe shifted from a "false vacuum" state to a "true vacuum" state. What is the significance of this transition?

• A) The "false vacuum" describes the state of the universe before the Planck time, 10^-43 s. During this time the laws of physics as are currently understood did not apply.
• B) The transition was from a high-energy state to a low-energy state. The transition caused the inflationary epoch.
• C) The transition was one from a low-energy state to a high-energy state. The consequent intake of energy caused the universe at the end of the inflationary epoch to be much cooler than it had been at the beginning of the inflationary epoch.
• D) In its transition to the true vacuum, the universe became trapped in a state of minimum energy, unable to expand or contract.

---

Definitions:

Crime Rates

The frequency at which crimes occur in a specific area during a set period.

Strain Theory

A sociological theory that posits societal structures may pressure citizens to commit crimes by placing emphasis on goals that are not achievable through legitimate means for everyone.

Chivalry Hypothesis

The theory suggesting that societal norms and judicial systems are more lenient towards women than men, hence expecting them to be treated with leniency and gallantry in situations of legal transgression.

Federal Institutions

Organizations or entities that are part of a national government system, which have specific responsibilities and powers as defined by law or constitution.