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a[51] Introduction to Fundamental Physics > [09] Cosmology > Flashcards

[09] Cosmology Flashcards

1
Q

What is the branch of astronomy that studies the universe as a whole?

A

Cosmology

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2
Q

What does cosmology study about the universe?

A
  • Birth of the universe
  • Growth of the universe
  • Shape of the universe
  • Size of the universe
  • Eventual fate of the universe
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3
Q

What theory explains the birth of the universe?

A

The Big Bang Theory

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4
Q

What is Dark Matter?

A

An unseen substance that makes up about 27% of the universe; it influences the formation and structure of galaxies.

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5
Q

What is Dark Energy?

A

A hypothetical form of energy that makes up about 68% of the universe; it is believed to be responsible for the accelerating expansion of the universe.

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6
Q

What event is believed to be the “birth” of the universe in cosmology?

A

The Big Bang

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7
Q

How does cosmology study the growth of the universe?

A

Through observations of galaxies, star formation, and cosmic microwave background radiation

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8
Q

What is the current understanding of the shape of the universe in cosmology?

A

It is considered to be flat, based on data from the cosmic microwave background radiation

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9
Q

How does cosmology estimate the size of the universe?

A

Through calculations based on Hubble’s law and observations of the cosmic microwave background

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10
Q

What are some theories about the eventual fate of the universe studied in cosmology?

A
  • Heat death (Universe continues expanding and cools down)
  • Big Crunch (Universe collapses in on itself)
  • Big Rip (Expansion of Universe accelerates until everything is torn apart)
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11
Q

What is the “Heat Death” theory about the fate of the universe?

A

It’s a theory suggesting the universe will continue to expand and cool until it reaches a state of no thermodynamic free energy, meaning no new processes can occur

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12
Q

What causes the “Heat Death” of the universe?

A

The unceasing expansion and the law of entropy

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13
Q

What is the “Big Crunch” theory about the fate of the universe?

A

It’s a theory suggesting the expansion of the universe will eventually reverse, causing it to collapse in on itself

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14
Q

What could happen after a “Big Crunch”?

A

Possibly a new “Big Bang”, creating a cyclic model of the universe

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15
Q

What is the “Big Rip” theory about the fate of the universe?

A

It’s a theory suggesting the expansion of the universe could accelerate until all matter and spacetime is torn apart

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16
Q

What would cause a “Big Rip”?

A

An increase in the force of dark energy over gravity causing an accelerated expansion

a[51] Introduction to Fundamental Physics (13 decks)

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