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Physics

How nothing could destroy the universe

The concept of nothing once sparked a 1000-year-long war, today it might explain dark energy and nothingness even has the potential to destroy the universe, explains physicist Antonio Padilla

By Antonio Padilla

1 April 2025

There is a form of nothingness even more empty than the vacuum of space

Panther Media GmbH / Alamy

The following is an extract from our Lost in Space-Time newsletter. Each month, we hand over the keyboard to a physicist or mathematician to tell you about fascinating ideas from their corner of the universe. You cansign up for Lost in Space-Time here.

Most of us complain about nothing from time to time. Like when you open the fridge, see the empty shelves, and sigh, Theres nothing to eat even though theres a half-eaten yogurt and some suspicious…

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