The universe is

Options

A. Expanding
B. Contracting
C. Static
D. In second half of its cycle.

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks about the nature of the universe, specifically whether it is expanding, contracting, or static.

2. **Analyzing the Universe's Behavior**: Current scientific understanding indicates that the universe is expanding. This expansion means that the distances between various parts of the universe are increasing over time.

3. **Clarifying Expansion**: When we say the universe is expanding, it does not imply that objects within the universe are moving through space away from each other. Instead, it means that the fabric of space itself is stretching, causing the distance between gravitationally unbound objects to increase.

4. **Gravitationally Unbound Parts**: The expansion is particularly noted between parts of the universe that are not gravitationally bound to each other. If two objects are gravitationally bound, their distance will not increase despite the overall expansion of the universe.

5. **Space-Time Matrix Scale**: The expansion of the universe can be observed and measured using the space-time matrix scale. This scale shows that the spatial dimensions of the universe are increasing, which confirms that objects are moving apart from each other.

6. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, the correct answer to the question is that the universe is expanding. The options of contracting and static are incorrect.

### Final Answer:
The universe is **expanding**.

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