According to the theory, this randomness comes about because the seedbed on which the galaxies grew had a purely random source itself: fluctuations of the so-called quantum vacuum. The quantum vacuum is a manifestation of the quantum fields that fill the universe.

What causes fluctuations in quantum field?

In quantum terms, the strong force is carried by a field of virtual particles called gluons, randomly popping into existence and disappearing again. The energy of these vacuum fluctuations has to be included in the total mass of the proton and neutron.

How do quantum fluctuations happen?

According to quantum mechanics, a vacuum isn't empty at all. It's actually filled with quantum energy and particles that blink in and out of existence for a fleeting moment - strange signals that are known as quantum fluctuations. ... This is where the quantum vacuum comes into it.