This thing is -270°C and is EVERYWHERE

The video explores the cosmic microwave background (CMB), a signal from the early universe discovered by accident in the 1960s. It explains the CMB's origins, its significance in understanding the Big Bang, and how it provides insights into the universe's expansion and dark energy. The video also covers the early universe's conditions, the recombination epoch, and how the CMB has been mapped using space probes.

What was the initial reaction of Wilson and Penzias to the mysterious signal they discovered?

• They immediately recognized it as the CMB.

• They ignored it as irrelevant noise.

• They thought it was a mistake or interference.

• They believed it was a signal from another planet.

What is the cosmic microwave background primarily composed of?

• Gamma rays

• Microwaves

• Ultraviolet radiation

• Visible light

Why is the early universe described as 'opaque'?

• Because it was completely dark.

• Because it was filled with black holes.

• Because light couldn't travel freely due to dense plasma.

• Because it was filled with dark matter.

What significant event allowed light to travel freely across the universe?

• The creation of galaxies

• The Big Bang

• The recombination of electrons and protons into atoms

• The formation of stars

How do scientists map the cosmic microwave background?

• By sending specialized probes into space

• By observing solar flares

• Using optical telescopes

• Through ground-based radio antennas

What does the Sunyaev-Zel'dovich effect help scientists understand?

• The formation of stars

• The temperature of the CMB

• The effect of dark energy on the universe's expansion

• The age of the universe

What is the current average temperature of the cosmic microwave background?

• 100 Kelvin

• 0 Kelvin

• 2.7 Kelvin

• 3000 Kelvin