The present universe seems to require a "cosmological constant" equivalent to that introduced into general relativity by Einstein when his theory would not explain the expected static universe.What is the effect on the evolution of the present universe of the "new" cosmological constant?
A) It produces a pressure to oppose the mutual gravitational pull of all the matter in the universe,accelerating its expansion.
B) It is a term that accounts for the negative gravity generated by antimatter in the universe,the presence of which will produce an accelerated expansion.
C) It just balances gravity to allow the universe to remain static,as Einstein predicted.
D) It produces an extra attractive force in addition to gravity,slowing down the expansion of the universe.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The "new" cosmological constant, also known as dark energy, produces a pressure that opposes the mutual gravitational pull of all matter in the universe, causing an accelerating expansion of the universe. This has been observed through various observational methods such as the measurement of the cosmic microwave background radiation and the redshifting of distant supernovae.

The Present Universe Seems to Require a "Cosmological Constant" Equivalent