We have completed maintenance on DiscoverMagazine.com and action may be required on your account. Learn More

Will Time Ever Stop: Could There Be an End to the Future?

Time is a fundamental concept in our lives, but have you ever wondered if it will ever stop? Discover the scientific theories on the nature of the universe and whether it will continue indefinitely.

By Paul M. Sutter
Jun 22, 2023 1:00 PM
Hourglass showing time running out
(Credit: Min C. Chiu/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

If you've ever watched an ice cube melt or stirred creamer into a pool of black coffee, you've witnessed a fundamental truth about the universe: The "arrow of time" always marches forward.

Time flows from past to future. What we call the present is a never-ending series of inflection points, where the collection of events that have already happened (the past) meets the collection of events that have yet to happen (the future). And while time doesn’t ever stop, it can slow down.

Slowing Down Time

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Shop Now
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.