Is Space A Vacuum
A vacuum is defined as a space devoid of all matter.
Is space a vacuum. Space is an almost perfect vacuum full of cosmic voids. Ultimately a perfect vacuum isn t possible because quantum theory dictates that energy fluctuations known as virtual particles are constantly popping in and out of existence even in empty space. But to really understand the vacuum of our universe we have to take a moment to understand what a vacuum.
And in short gravity is to blame. Interstellar space between stars contains around one atom per 1cm 3 while intergalactic space between galaxies contains 100 times less. So what is a vacuum and.
But to really understand the vacuum of our universe we have to take a moment to understand what a vacuum really is and what it s not. According to modern understanding even if all matter could be removed from a volume it would still not be empty due to vacuum fluctuations dark energy transiting gamma rays cosmic rays neutrinos and other phenomena in quantum physics. In the solar system space contains on average five atoms per 1cm 3.
Outer space is an even higher quality vacuum with the equivalent of just a few hydrogen atoms per cubic meter on average in intergalactic space.