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General Relativity and Quantum Cosmology, gr-qc
Abstract:
We track the evolution of entropy and black holes in a cyclic universe that
undergoes repeated intervals of expansion followed by slow contraction and a
smooth (non-singular) bounce. In this kind of cyclic scenario, there is no big
crunch and no chaotic mixmaster behavior. We explain why the entropy following
each bounce is naturally partitioned into near-maximal entropy in the
matter-radiation sector and near-minimal in the gravitational sector,
satisfying the Weyl curvature conditions conjectured to be essential for a
cosmology consistent with observations. As a result, this kind of cyclic
universe can undergo an unbounded number of cycles in the past and/or the
future.
