Summary
The universe began in a state of extraordinarily low entropy, representing an extreme level of order that is statistically inexplicable without special initial conditions.
Observation / Fact
The Second Law of Thermodynamics states that entropy increases over time. Yet the early universe was highly ordered, allowing stars, galaxies, and complexity to emerge.
Why This Is Non-Trivial
A random initial state would almost certainly be high-entropy. Roger Penrose calculated the probability of such a low-entropy beginning as approximately 1 in 10^(10^123), an unimaginably small value.
What It Implies
The initial conditions of the universe were not generic. They appear finely constrained, demanding explanation beyond blind physical processes.
Related
- Arrow of Time
- Penrose Entropy Calculation