If the dark energy is described by the cosmological constant, then the _____ Universe is ____.
A) open; accelerating and will not expand forever
B) flat; decelerating and will expand forever
C) closed; accelerating and will expand forever
D) open;, decelerating and will expand forever
E) flat; accelerating and will expand forever

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If dark energy is described by the cosmological constant, it implies that the energy density of the vacuum remains constant over time, leading to an accelerated expansion of the universe. A flat universe model, consistent with observations of the cosmic microwave background radiation, suggests that the universe has just enough energy density to continue expanding forever at an accelerating rate, hence option E is correct.

If the Dark Energy Is Described by the Cosmological Constant