Exit Check 8.7: The Big Bang

Front

What is the Big Bang Theory?

Back

The Big Bang Theory is the leading explanation for the origin of the universe, stating that it began as a singularity approximately 13.7 billion years ago and has been expanding ever since.

Front

What is redshift in astronomy?

Back

Redshift is the phenomenon where light from an object is shifted to longer wavelengths (toward the red end of the spectrum) as the object moves away from the observer, indicating that the universe is expanding.

Front

How is the speed of a galaxy moving away from us calculated using redshift?

Back

Front

What does a greater redshift indicate about a galaxy?

Back

A greater redshift indicates that the galaxy is moving away faster and is likely further away from us.

Front

What is Cosmic Background Radiation?

Back

Cosmic Background Radiation is the afterglow radiation from the Big Bang, filling the universe and providing evidence for the Big Bang Theory.

Front

What is the estimated age of the universe?

Back

The universe is estimated to be approximately 13.7 billion years old.

Front

What does the presence of more hydrogen in distant galaxies suggest?

Back

It suggests that these galaxies are younger, as hydrogen was more abundant in the early universe.

Front

What is the significance of the Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation?

Back

It provides evidence for the Big Bang Theory and shows the uniformity of the universe's early state.

Front

What is the relationship between distance and redshift in galaxies?

Back

The further away a galaxy is, the more redshifted its light appears, indicating it is moving away faster.

Front

What is the Doppler Effect in relation to light?

Back

The Doppler Effect describes the change in frequency or wavelength of light from an object moving relative to an observer, leading to redshift or blueshift.