Space Physics and Astronomy - SS1 Physics Past Questions and Answers - page 4
The cosmic microwave background radiation is observed as:
Radio waves
Visible light
X-rays
Infrared radiation
The cosmic microwave background radiation is nearly uniform in all directions because:
It has been scattered by interstellar dust
It has been absorbed by distant galaxies
The universe is expanding uniformly
The universe was once in a hot, dense state
Explain the Big Bang theory and its significance in our understanding of the origins of the universe.
The Big Bang theory proposes that the universe originated from a singularity, a point of infinite density and temperature, approximately 13.8 billion years ago. According to this theory, the universe has been expanding ever since, cooling down and allowing matter and energy to form. The Big Bang theory is supported by various lines of evidence, such as the observed redshift of distant galaxies, the abundance of light elements, and cosmic microwave background radiation. It provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the evolution and structure of the universe.
Discuss the cosmic microwave background radiation and its role in confirming the Big Bang theory.
The cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation is the residual heat radiation left over from the early stages of the universe, about 380,000 years after the Big Bang. It is often referred to as the "afterglow" of the Big Bang. The CMB radiation was discovered accidentally in 1965 by Arno Penzias and Robert Wilson, and its existence provided strong evidence in support of the Big Bang theory.
The CMB radiation is observed as a nearly uniform glow of microwaves coming from all directions in space. Its discovery and subsequent measurements have revealed important information about the early universe. The uniformity and isotropy of the CMB radiation indicate that the universe was once in a hot, dense state. The precise measurements of the CMB radiation have also helped determine the composition and age of the universe, as well as its rate of expansion.
What is the primary goal of space exploration?
Discovering new planets
Studying the behaviour of stars
Understanding the universe and expanding human knowledge
Establishing human colonies on other planets
Which of the following is an example of a space exploration milestone?
Invention of the telescope
Discovery of the laws of gravity
First human landing on the Moon
All of the above
Why is space exploration important?
It allows us to find new sources of energy.
It provides opportunities for space tourism.
It contributes to technological advancements and scientific discoveries.
It helps us escape from Earth's environmental problems.
Which space agency was responsible for the Apollo Moon missions?
NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)
ESA (European Space Agency)
Roscosmos (Russian Space Agency)
ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation)
What was the significance of the Hubble Space Telescope?
It allowed for the first human landing on the Moon.
It discovered the presence of water on Mars.
It provided stunning images of distant galaxies and deepened our understanding of the universe.
It demonstrated the possibility of human colonisation on other planets.
Which spacecraft was the first to reach the outer boundaries of our solar system?
Voyager 1
Mars Rover
International Space Station (ISS)
Hubble Space Telescope