Question 1: Explain in your own words the basic concept of the Big Bang Theory.

Answer: The Big Bang Theory suggests that the universe started from an extremely hot and dense point approximately 13.8 billion years ago and has been expanding ever since.

Question 1: Define the term 'cosmic microwave background radiation'.

Answer: It is the faint radiation leftover from the early universe, detected uniformly in all directions, providing evidence for the Big Bang.

Question 2: Describe how the redshift of galaxies supports the Big Bang Theory.

Answer: Galaxies are observed to be moving away from us, with their light shifted towards the red end of the spectrum, indicating the universe is expanding.

Question 1: If a galaxy is 2 billion light-years away and is receding at 20,000 km/s, calculate the approximate rate of expansion of the universe using Hubble's Law: v = H₀ × d. (Use H₀ = 70 km/s/Mpc).

Answer: H₀ ≈ 70 km/s/Mpc; convert 2 billion light-years to Mpc; then H₀ = v / d to find the Hubble constant.

Question 2: A supernova explosion releases energy of approximately 10^44 Joules. If this energy is evenly spread across a sphere with a radius of 10^24 meters, calculate the energy flux (energy per unit area).

Answer: Flux = Energy / Area; Area = 4πr²; substitute values to find flux in Joules per square meter.

Question 1: Describe the key variables you would control when designing an experiment to detect cosmic microwave background radiation.

Answer: Variables include temperature sensitivity of detectors, shielding from external radiation, and calibration of equipment.

Question 2: List two safety precautions scientists must take when working with high-sensitivity detectors in space observations.

Answer: Precautions include ensuring proper shielding from cosmic rays and maintaining equipment in a controlled environment to prevent damage.

Question 1: A set of observations shows that a galaxy 1.5 billion light-years away is receding at a velocity of 10500 km/s. Does this data support the current value of Hubble's constant? Explain your reasoning.

Answer: Yes, using Hubble's Law v = H₀ × d, H₀ ≈ v / d. Convert distance to Mpc and calculate H₀; if close to 70 km/s/Mpc, it supports the current model.

Question 1: Explain how the study of cosmic microwave background radiation has contributed to advancements in satellite technology.

Answer: Studying CMB radiation has led to the development of highly sensitive detectors and cooling systems used in satellites for space observation.

Question 2: Discuss the importance of understanding the universe's expansion for future space travel and exploration.

Answer: Understanding expansion helps in mapping the universe's future dynamics, guiding navigation and mission planning for distant space travel, and developing technology to withstand extreme conditions.