How would we define the universe?

Answer 1

The universe is all matter and energy in the space-time continuum which we inhabit. It is all of physical reality. The universe is everything that we can observe, examine, analyze, and measure with any of our five senses or with special instruments or technology. Its main components are the galaxies, which are huge gaseous clouds of stars and interstellar material in the continuous near-vacuum of space. Stars are large spheres of plasma (ionized gas) that generate energy by nuclear fusion in their cores. Planets are spheres of rock or gas that orbit their parent stars. The earth, together with all its living organisms, including ourselves, is a part of the universe. The universe is either infinite or finite. It has been established that space is expanding carrying all the galaxies along with it. There are two main theories concerning the origin of the universe: the big bang theory, which states that the universe came into being from an infinitely dense and hot point 13.7 billion years ago; and the steady-state theory, which states that the universe has remained the same throughout all of time and had no beginning. The shape of the universe is either flat, open, or closed. It will end in either a Big Crunch, a Big Rip, or will expand indefinitely. The universe is composed of space-time, matter, and energy. Although actually elements of the smae thing, space and time are perceived as separate by human beings. Space is the continuous three-dimensional field extending in every direction in which all physical bodies are located and all events take place. Time is the continuous transformation of existence in which events in the universe follow one after the other in an apparently forward direction from past through present to future. It is also the component in which we measure motion of bodies through space. Matter and energy are also aspects of the same thing, being related through the equations E=mc2 Matter is everything that we can observe and measure. Its main components are the atoms and subatomic particles which make up the chemical elements of the Periodic Table. Matter possesses mass, which is basically a measure of inertia, or the resistance of a body to acceleration or a change in direction of movement. Matter also occupies specific positions in space. Matter exists in four fundamental states as a solid, liquid, gas, or plasma (ionized gas). Energy is the capacity of a physical body to do work. There are many forms of energy such as thermal energy, chemical energy, electrical energy and mechanical energy. The universe is governed by four fundamental forces: the strong and weak nuclear forces, electromagnetism, and gravitation. There are also components of the universe which we can't observe directly but can only postulate such as dark matter and dark energy. In human religious institutions, the universe is believed to be governed by supernatural beings or to have been created by command of an Infinite and Supreme Being.

Answer 2

The universe is the totality of all known and unknown things, including space, time, matter, energy, and the laws that govern them. It encompasses everything that exists, from galaxies and stars to planets and living organisms.