The Universe
Age of the Universe
Believed that the Universe is extremely vast and more than 10 billion years old
Could be up to 13.7 billion years
Origin of the
Universe
Started with the Big Bang Most of the earliest atoms were hydrogen and helium Universe kept expanding in all directions and continues
to expand today
What is the Universe?
everything that exists in any placeAll the space, matter, and energy in existence
The Big Bang Theory
• “All matter and energy started out concentrated in a small area and after a gigantic explosion, matter began to organize into subatomic particles and atoms”
• Radiation from the Big Bang mixes with energy given off by stars throughout the universe. – Cosmic Background Radiation: Long wave background
radiation (microwaves) that appears to come from all directions in the Universe Discuss the Origin of the Universe
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The Electromagnetic Spectrum
What is the Electromagnetic Spectrum?
Is there any event in nature that allows you to view the entire
spectrum?
The Electromagnetic Energy
• Various types of waves that transfer energy throughout space• Measured using the Electromagnetic Spectrum
– Scientists infer which elements are in an object based on the electromagnetic energy emitted
– Based on composition of signature wavelength produced
• Doppler Effect: Shifting of wavelengths– Relative movement between Earth and the other celestial objects
cause the Doppler Effect
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How are you able to tell if an emergency vehicle is approaching?
The Doppler Effect
Red Shift Blue Shift
•“Longer” end of the spectrum• Indicates that objects are moving apart•Most, if not all, stars in the galaxy are shifted to the red end of the spectrum (evidence that universe is expanding) - Rate that universe is expanding is increasing
• “Shorter” end of the spectrum• Indicates that objects are moving apart
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