Chapter 34, Problem 18RQ

Did Einstein first believe that the universe was static or dynamic?

To determine

The Einstein first believe about the universe was static or dynamic.

Answer to Problem 18RQ

Einstein's first believes was that the universe was static. The Universe he described was known as Einstein’s static universe or Einstein universe and proposed the relativistic model of the static universe in $1917$.

Explanation of Solution

There were many opinions about the static or dynamic nature of the universe. The first belief towards the Universe about its static or dynamic nature was given by Einstein and states that it was static. He proposed a relativistic model in 1917 in support of his statement.

With a little time elapsed after completing the theory of relativity, Einstein applied his theory of gravity to the universe as a whole. According to this theory, Einstein assumed the universe was static in time and possessed of a uniform distribution of matter on the largest scales.

After the discovery of a linear equation by Edwin Hubble between the red-shifts of the galaxies and their distance in 1929, Einstein was no longer in support of his static model and proposed other models. Later, Einstein thought his static model as the biggest blunder.

Conclusion:

Therefore, Einstein's first believes was that the universe was static. The Universe he described was known as Einstein’s static universe or Einstein universe and proposed the relativistic model of the static universe in $1917$.