Their model shows that these ripples, which emerged as natural byproducts of quantum physics, created the density fluctuations that eventually evolved into galaxies and stars. This explanation removes the need for hypothetical new particles and instead relies on physical principles already observed and tested.
Jiménez explained that the strength of this model lies in its simplicity: “Without the inflaton, the theory becomes minimalist and clear. It gives us a strong framework for future testing.”
From Quantum Ripples to Cosmic Structure
The study argues that gravitational waves not only shaped the universe’s early density fluctuations but also provided a natural mechanism for ending inflation. This transition from rapid expansion to a radiation-filled cosmos could have occurred seamlessly, allowing the universe to evolve into the complex structure we see today.
“Too much flexibility in science can be problematic,” said Bertacca. “It makes it difficult to determine whether a model is truly predicting something or simply adapting to observed data. It is precisely the elegance and simplicity of our model — and the absence of free parameters — that are key.”
