# Saving the universe with finite volume effects

## TL;DR

This paper proposes a non-perturbative quantum field theory mechanism in finite volume that can bias a collapsing universe towards expansion, potentially enabling a non-singular bounce or initial conditions for inflation.

## Contribution

It introduces a novel quantum field effect in finite volume that dynamically violates the null energy condition, aiding in avoiding cosmological singularities.

## Key findings

- Mechanism can bias contraction towards expansion
- Potential to generate initial conditions for inflation
- Supports non-singular cosmological bounce

## Abstract

Setting aside anthropic arguments, there is no reason why the universe should initially favour a net expanding phase rather than one experiencing a net contraction. However, a collapsing universe containing "normal" matter will end at a singularity in a finite time. We point out that there is a mechanism, derived from non-perturbative effects in Quantum Field Theory in a finite volume, which may provide a bias towards expansion when the spacetime volume shrinks, by dynamically violating the null energy condition, without the need for modified gravity or exotic matter. We describe a scalar field component subjected to this non-perturbative effect in a cosmological background and consider its impact on a contracting phase. We discuss how this could dynamically generate the necessary initial conditions for inflation to get started, or form part of the mechanism for a non-singular cosmological bounce.