The prevailing theory of cosmic inflation suggests that a rapid expansion of the universe occurred during its early stages, shortly after the Big Bang. This expansion is thought to have been driven by a hypothetical scalar field called the inflaton. Gravitational waves, on the other hand, are ripples in the fabric of spacetime caused by accelerating masses. While gravitational waves can provide valuable insights into the early universe, they are not considered the primary driving force behind inflation.
Inflation is typically attributed to the behavior of the inflaton field, which underwent a period of exponential expansion. During this expansion, quantum fluctuations in the inflaton field were stretched across cosmic scales, ultimately leading to the formation of the large-scale structure of the universe. These quantum fluctuations are believed to be responsible for the tiny variations in temperature observed in the cosmic microwave background radiation.
Gravitational waves can be produced during cosmic inflation, as the rapidly expanding spacetime generates ripples in the fabric of the universe. These primordial gravitational waves can leave an imprint on the cosmic microwave background radiation and are actively studied by scientists to learn more about the early universe. However, their role in driving inflation itself is not considered significant.
It's important to note that the precise details of cosmic inflation and its underlying mechanisms are still subjects of ongoing research and investigation. While gravitational waves play a role in our understanding of the early universe, their direct contribution to the process of inflation is not currently a widely accepted explanation.