Astronomy and Cosmology Flashcard

Front

What is a White Dwarf?

Back

A White Dwarf is a small, dense star that is the remnant of a star like our Sun after it has exhausted its nuclear fuel and shed its outer layers.

Front

Why can we see back in time when observing distant galaxies?

Back

We can see back in time because the universe is expanding, and light takes time to reach us from distant galaxies.

Front

What is Stellar Nucleosynthesis?

Back

Stellar Nucleosynthesis is the process by which heavy elements are created in the cores of stars through nuclear fusion.

Front

What causes stars to eventually die?

Back

Stars eventually die because they run out of fuel for nuclear fusion.

Front

What is the primary force that causes a star to form?

Back

The primary force that causes a star to form is gravity.

Front

Define a Black Hole.

Back

A Black Hole is a region in space where the gravitational pull is so strong that nothing, not even light, can escape from it.

Front

What is a Neutron Star?

Back

A Neutron Star is the remnants of a supernova explosion, composed almost entirely of neutrons, and is incredibly dense.

Front

Explain the concept of the Big Bang Theory.

Back

The Big Bang Theory is the leading explanation for the origin of the universe, proposing that it began as a singularity and has been expanding ever since.

Front

What is the significance of the Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation?

Back

The Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation is the afterglow of the Big Bang, providing evidence for the universe's early hot and dense state.

Front

What is the role of dark matter in the universe?

Back

Dark matter is a form of matter that does not emit light or energy, making it invisible, but it exerts gravitational effects on visible matter.