Tumble Science Podcast for Kids · Tumble Media

Was There Ever Nothing?

April 11, 2025·23 min·2 clips

Dr. Jessica Sibel explains that before the Big Bang, there was nothing—but quantum particles were already bubbling in that nothingness.

This episode tackles a question from 8-year-old listener Aviva: "Was there ever nothing in the universe?" Hosts Lindsay and Marshall explore this with experimental physicist Dr. Jessica Esquivel. Dr. Esquivel studies subatomic particles using massive detectors at Fermilab. Her short answer to Aviva's question is "yes and no," depending on how one defines "nothing." She explains that before the Big Bang 13.8 billion years ago, there may have been a vacuum with no air or mass. Dr. Esquivel introduces the quantum realm, where virtual particles constantly pop in and out of existence like bubbles in soda. She distinguishes between the macroscopic world we see and the microscopic, quantum world we cannot. The conversation uses an analogy of an ant on a sidewalk to illustrate different perspectives within the same world. Dr. Esquivel states that in the quantum realm, there can never be true nothingness; it is a roiling "quantum foam." To study this, physicists build enormous detectors, including magnetic rings 50 feet wide. These rings are used to observe subatomic particles called muons, described as a "plus-size version of an electron." Scientists watch muons "dance" in these rings, looking for unexpected movements or "quantum booty pops." These anomalies could hint at hidden, unknown particles present at the universe's beginning. Detecting these particles might help explain why the universe exists. Dr. Esquivel emphasizes that comfort with failure is a crucial part of scientific discovery. The episode concludes with an activity encouraging kids to have their own "quantum dance party." The tone is playful and educational, making complex physics accessible through analogies and humor. Listeners curious about cosmology, quantum physics, or existential questions will enjoy this episode. Those seeking straightforward, definitive answers might find the "yes and no" explanations frustrating.

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