Which of these items provide evidence supporting the Big Bang theory? Select the two correct items.(1 point)
Responses
rate of star formation
rate of star formation
cosmic background radiation
cosmic background radiation
sizes and shapes of distant galaxies
sizes and shapes of distant galaxies
composition of matter in the universe
cosmic background radiation
composition of matter in the universe
The two correct items that provide evidence supporting the Big Bang theory are:
1. Cosmic background radiation
2. Sizes and shapes of distant galaxies
To determine which of these items provide evidence supporting the Big Bang theory, we can examine the following options:
1. Rate of star formation: While the rate of star formation alone does not directly provide evidence supporting the Big Bang theory, it can indirectly support it. According to the theory, the universe originated from a hot and dense state, and as it expanded, it cooled down and allowed for the formation of stars and galaxies. So, the observation of a higher rate of star formation in the past or in certain regions can suggest that the universe has evolved from a more compact and dense state, which is consistent with the Big Bang theory.
2. Cosmic background radiation: The detection of cosmic background radiation is one of the most significant pieces of evidence supporting the Big Bang theory. This radiation is a faint glow of electromagnetic radiation left over from the early stages of the universe, often referred to as the "afterglow" of the Big Bang. Its discovery in 1965 by Arno Penzias and Robert Wilson provided strong evidence that the universe had a hot, dense, and expanding origin.
3. Sizes and shapes of distant galaxies: The observation of the sizes and shapes of distant galaxies also provides evidence for the Big Bang theory. The theory predicts that as the universe expands, the space between galaxies also expands, causing galaxies to move apart from each other. Therefore, by studying the sizes and shapes of distant galaxies, astronomers can infer the expansion of the universe and its origins, ultimately supporting the Big Bang theory.
4. Composition of matter in the universe: While the composition of matter in the universe can provide insights into its evolution and formation, it alone does not directly support the Big Bang theory. However, understanding the distribution and amounts of different elements and types of matter can help scientists build a more detailed picture of the history of the universe.
Based on the explanations above, the two correct items that provide evidence supporting the Big Bang theory are:
1. Cosmic background radiation
2. Sizes and shapes of distant galaxies