Scientists have uncovered a surprising connection between quantum gravity and an exotic quantum state of matter that could explain why the universe isn’t expanding wildly fast. The study suggests that the very shape of space-time may protect the cosmological constant from disruptive quantum effects. According to quantum field theory (QFT), the framework that describes elementary particles and their interactions, empty space should be filled with quantum fluctuations that contribute an enormous amount of energy. In fact, calculations suggest the ... [7629 chars]