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Astrophysics, Cosmology & Relativity

Cosmic Strings

Hypothetical 1D subatomic-width topological line defects that may have formed during GUT phase transitions in the early universe.

Governing formula Linear Mass Density G μ / c² ~ 10⁻⁶
SI unit 1D Topological Defect

In depth

Cosmic strings carry immense mass density (~10¹⁷ kg per meter). Their intense gravitational fields produce characteristic double-image gravitational lensing signatures and cosmic microwave background temperature discontinuities.

Examples in the real world

Searching for double gravitational lensing signatures of background galaxies caused by cosmic strings.