There has always been speculation that physical constants of the universe may not be constant and that one way in which the universe ‘evolves’ may be evolution of those constants. Most attention has been focused (Physical Review Focus )on the fine structure constant (Physlink ), whose potential inconstancy has profound implications (Dr James Gilson ). Now a far more familiar number is called into question as well:
The controversial finding is turning up the heat on an already simmering debate, especially since it is based on re-analysis of old data that has long been used to argue for exactly the opposite: the constancy of the speed of light and other constants.
A varying speed of light contradicts Einstein’s theory of relativity, and would undermine much of traditional physics. But some physicists believe it would elegantly explain puzzling cosmological phenomena such as the nearly uniform temperature of the universe. It might also support string theories that predict extra spatial dimensions.” (New Scientist)
