The Steady State Theory proposed by Hermann Bondi, Thomas Gold, and Sir Fred Hoyle in 1948 suggested that the universe is always expanding while simultaneously creating matter to fill the gaps, maintaining a constant and unchanging density. This theory provided an alternative to the Big Bang theory by proposing the universe had no beginning and would exist forever in this steady state. However, discoveries like the cosmic microwave background radiation and quasars at large distances implied the universe evolved over time, leading to the prevailing Big Bang model of today. The Steady State theory helped prove the Big Bang by making testable predictions that were later contradicted by observations.

1. STEADY STATE
UNIVERSE
by Eric Karlan

2. The Basics
• Who: Hermann Bondi,
Thomas Gold, and Sir
Fred Hoyle
• When: 1948
• Where: Earth
• What: Proposed the
Steady State Theory
• Why: An alternative
theory to the Big Bang

3. The Theory
•The universe is always
the same, all the time,
always static, always
contracting or expanding.

4. THE LOGIC
• Based on theoretical mathematical
calculations
• No sudden beginning to universe
• Decrease in density caused by
expansion balanced by continuous
creation of matter condensing into
galaxies
• Maintain forever present appearance
of the universe

5. The Workings
• Reservoir of energy is negative:
Expansion and creation work against
each other
• Small number of atoms needed
annually to maintain steady state

6. The Contributions
• Explains hydrogen and helium
abundance in the universe
• Contributes to Wheeler-Feynman
Theory

7. The Refutation
• Distribution of Radio
Sources
• 1966: Discovery of
Quasars
• Cosmic Background
Radiation

8. The Meaning
• Radio galaxies and quasars occur
only at very large distances
• Implies red-shift
• Thus, evolution of universe

9. The Conclusion
• The Big Bang Model prevails present
day
• Steady State theory helped to prove
Big Bang through its testability

10. The Works Cited
• The Steady State Universe. Accessed
25 March, 2006.
http://www.schoolsobservatory.org.uk
/study/sci/cosmo/internal/steady.htm
• “Steady State Universe.” Wikipedia.
11 March, 2004. Accessed 25 March,
2006.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steady_sta
te_universe