Which of these items provide evidence supporting the Big Bang theory? Select the two correct items.(1 point) Responses cosmic background radiation cosmic background radiation rate of star formation rate of star formation sizes and shapes of distant galaxies sizes and shapes of distant galaxies composition of matter in the universe
The correct items that provide evidence supporting the Big Bang theory are:
1. Cosmic background radiation: The detection of the cosmic microwave background radiation, which is a faint glow of radiation left over from the early moments of the universe, is one of the strongest pieces of evidence for the Big Bang theory.
2. The composition of matter in the universe: The abundance and distribution of elements in the universe, particularly the primordial abundance of light elements such as hydrogen and helium, supports the predictions of the Big Bang theory.
The two correct items that provide evidence supporting the Big Bang theory are:
1. Cosmic background radiation: The existence of cosmic background radiation, which is a faint glow of radiation that permeates the entire universe, is considered strong evidence for the Big Bang. This radiation is the remnants of the intense heat generated during the initial moments of the Big Bang.
2. Composition of matter in the universe: Observations of the composition of matter in the universe, specifically the abundance of light elements such as hydrogen and helium, provide another piece of evidence. The Big Bang theory predicts that these elements should have formed in the early stages of the universe, and subsequent observations support this prediction.
To determine which of the items provide evidence supporting the Big Bang theory, let's analyze each option:
1. Cosmic background radiation: This is one of the strongest pieces of evidence supporting the Big Bang theory. The theory predicts that after the explosion (the Big Bang), the universe expanded and cooled down. As a result, a residual heat from the initial explosion would exist in the form of cosmic background radiation. In 1964, this radiation was discovered, providing significant evidence for the theory.
2. Rate of star formation: The rate of star formation is not a direct piece of evidence for the Big Bang theory. However, it is indirectly connected to the theory. The Big Bang theory explains the origin of the universe and the initial conditions necessary for the formation of galaxies and stars. Therefore, by studying the rate of star formation and comparing it to the theoretical predictions of the Big Bang, scientists can infer and support the theory.
3. Sizes and shapes of distant galaxies: The sizes and shapes of distant galaxies are also not direct evidence for the Big Bang theory. However, they support the theory indirectly. According to the Big Bang theory, the universe is continuously expanding. As a result, galaxies are moving away from each other, causing them to appear larger and in different shapes when observed from a distance. This phenomenon, known as cosmic expansion, is consistent with the observed sizes and shapes of distant galaxies.
4. Composition of matter in the universe: The composition of matter in the universe is not specific evidence for the Big Bang theory either. However, it is connected to the theory indirectly. The Big Bang theory predicts that the initial explosion produced hydrogen and helium in large amounts, which is supported by observations of the abundance of these elements in the universe. The composition of matter observed in the universe aligns with the predictions of the theory.
Therefore, the two items that provide evidence supporting the Big Bang theory are:
- Cosmic background radiation
- Sizes and shapes of distant galaxies