Space Nuts Episode #478 Q&A
Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this engaging Q&A edition of Space Nuts as they tackle intriguing questions from listeners worldwide. From the massive size of Jupiter to the nature of gravity and the mysteries of the universe's accelerating expansion, this episode is packed with cosmic conundrums and insightful discussions.
Episode Highlights:
- Jupiter's Massive Growth: Dive into the fascinating story of why Jupiter grew to such a colossal size compared to other planets. Explore the role of gas accretion, planetesimals, and the runaway growth effect in shaping the largest planet in our solar system.
- The Nature of Gravity: Examine the intriguing question of whether gravity is finite or infinite. Discover the complexities of gravitational waves, the stiffness of Space, and how these concepts influence our understanding of gravity's reach.
- The Night Sky in Earth's Early Era: Imagine standing on Earth when it first formed and ponder what the night sky would have looked like. Understand how the universe's expansion and the redshift of the Big Bang's light affect our cosmic view.
- The Fate of Comets: Consider the life cycle of comets and whether they can lose enough material to become nothing. Learn about the trails of dust left behind and their connection to meteor showers.
- Solar Panels at Night: Explore the possibility of generating solar power at night using light from stars and the moon. Delve into the limitations of current technology and the potential for future innovations.
- The Universe's Accelerating Expansion: Discuss the acceleration of the universe's expansion and whether it is constant or variable. Contemplate the implications for our understanding of dark energy and the structure of the universe.
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Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.
00:00 - This is a Q and A episode where we let the audience set the agenda
01:19 - Why did Jupiter grow to such a massive size compared to other planets
07:30 - Dean in Queensland has a question about whether gravity is infinite or finite
12:00 - Dean: We really don't understand gravity. Well, it'll be when quantum gravity really comes of age
13:50 - Professor Fred Watson answers a few quick fire questions via text message
14:22 - Given the night sky seems fairly full of stars to the naked eye today
18:26 - Could you develop solar panels that work at night by collecting energy from other stars
20:04 - Daniel asks whether the rate of acceleration is constant or ever so slightly variable
25:49 - The Space Nuts podcast group Facebook page has thousands of members
✍️ Episode References
Scientific American article on Jupiter's growth
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/why-was-jupiters-rapid-growth-spurt-delayed-for-millions-of-years/
Nature Astronomy journal
https://www.nature.com/natastron/

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