cosmic string

A Dictionary of Astronomy | 1997 | 562 words | Copyright

cosmic string A hypothetical one-dimensional (line-like) defect in the structure of space-time produced in some models of the early Universe. If produced in the framework of a grand unified theory, such a string would be about 10⁻³¹ m thick, and have a mass of about 10⁷ solar masses per light year. The strong gravitational effect of cosmic strings might have assisted in the formation of galaxies and of large-scale structure in the Universe. There is, however, no evidence yet for their existence. See also cosmic texture; domain wall; monopole.

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