At the Edge of Time: Exploring the Mysteries of Our Universe’s First Seconds (Science Essentials Book 32)

by Dan Hooper

If the laws of physics in our universe were even slightly different from what they are, the characteristics of our world could be dramatically altered. For example, if the strength of the electromagnetic force were a mere 4 percent weaker than it is in our world—or if the amount of electric charge carried by protons and electrons were only slightly smaller—protons in stars would be able to bind together, releasing huge amounts of energy and causing the Sun to immediately explode. On the other hand, if the electromagnetic force were much stronger than it is, then carbon atoms would be unstable—making life as we know it impossible. If protons were a mere 0.2 percent heavier than they are, or if neutrons were 0.2 percent lighter, free protons would decay into neutrons, instead of the other way around, leaving the world devoid of stable atoms. In these and many other ways, the characteristics of our universe seem to be remarkably well suited for the emergence of life.