Question 1: The Big Bang Theory suggests that the universe began from an extremely hot and dense state approximately 13.8 billion years ago. Explain how the concept of an expanding universe is relevant to modern medical imaging techniques such as MRI scans.

Answer: The expanding universe demonstrates that space itself can stretch and change, which relates to how MRI technology uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce images by detecting signals from within the body. Both rely on principles of electromagnetic waves and the behaviour of matter under different conditions.

Question 2: Define the term 'cosmic microwave background radiation' and explain its significance in supporting the Big Bang Theory.

Answer: Cosmic microwave background radiation is the faint thermal radiation filling the universe, left over from the early stages after the Big Bang. Its uniform presence supports the theory that the universe started from a hot, dense state and has been expanding since.

Question 3: Why is understanding the universe's expansion important for developing medical technologies that rely on electromagnetic signals?

Answer: Understanding the universe's expansion helps scientists comprehend electromagnetic wave behaviour over large distances and in different conditions, which is essential for improving the accuracy and effectiveness of medical imaging technologies like MRI and ultrasound.

Question 1: What is the main evidence supporting the idea that the universe is expanding?

Answer: Redshift of light from distant galaxies and the cosmic microwave background radiation.

Question 2: Describe how the concept of redshift is used to measure the rate of expansion of the universe.

Answer: Redshift occurs when light from distant galaxies shifts towards the red end of the spectrum, indicating they are moving away. The amount of redshift is used to calculate the velocity of galaxies and the rate of expansion, known as the Hubble constant.

Question 1: If a galaxy is observed to be receding at a speed of 2 million km/s, and the distance from Earth is 2 billion light-years, calculate the Hubble constant (H0) in km/s/Mpc. Use the formula: v = H0 × d. (1 light-year ≈ 9.461×10^12 km, 1 Mpc ≈ 3.086×10^19 km).

Answer: H0 ≈ 70 km/s/Mpc

Question 1: Design a simple experiment to demonstrate how electromagnetic signals can be used to detect changes in human tissue, similar to how cosmic signals are detected in space. Include variables and safety precautions in your explanation.

Answer: An experiment could involve using a magnetic field generator and radio waves to detect differences in conductivity or density of materials simulating human tissue. Variables include type of tissue sample, electromagnetic frequency, and signal strength. Safety precautions involve shielding equipment, avoiding exposure to strong magnetic fields, and following proper handling procedures for electromagnetic devices.

Question 1: A recent study shows that the universe's expansion rate has been increasing over the last 5 billion years. Explain how this discovery affects the understanding of the Big Bang Theory and its implications for medical imaging technologies.

Answer: An increasing expansion rate, due to dark energy, suggests the universe’s evolution is more complex than initially thought. This understanding enhances medical imaging by improving models of electromagnetic wave propagation, leading to more accurate diagnostic techniques and technology development.

Question 2: Identify two ways that advancements in understanding the universe's expansion can contribute to innovations in medical science.

Answer: 1. Development of more precise MRI technologies by applying knowledge of electromagnetic wave behaviour. 2. Improved diagnostic imaging by modelling how signals travel through different tissues, inspired by cosmological models.

Question 1: Explain how the principles of the Big Bang Theory are connected to the development of modern medical imaging technologies. Include at least three points in your explanation. (6 marks)

Answer: The Big Bang Theory demonstrates the universe’s expansion and the behaviour of electromagnetic radiation over vast distances. This knowledge has led to the development of MRI and ultrasound technologies by applying electromagnetic principles to detect internal body structures. Understanding cosmic microwave background radiation has advanced signal detection methods, improving image clarity. Additionally, the study of wave propagation in space has inspired innovations in medical imaging sensors and data processing techniques.