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Earth's Place in the Universe ESS1

ESS1-2 The Big Bang Theory

Page under construction

Phenomenon

What do you know before you see this source?  How does it add to your knowledge?
What do you still need to know?

ESS1-2

Construct an explanation of the Big Bang theory based on astronomical evidence of light spectra, motion of distant galaxies, and composition of matter in the universe.


Clarification Statement: Emphasis is on the astronomical evidence of the red shift of light from galaxies as an indication that the universe is currently expanding, the cosmic microwave background as the remnant radiation from the Big Bang, and the observed composition of ordinary matter of the universe, primarily found in stars and interstellar gases (from the spectra of electromagnetic radiation from stars), which matches that predicted by the Big Bang theory (3/4 hydrogen and 1/4 helium).

Assessment Boundary: none

Prior Knowledge/Preview
Big Bang Intro and video Smithsonian NASM

Inquiry science
       Printable activity
       On-line activity
Investigate the Big Bang Theory: GO TO page + search Big Bang Theory and open two of the CfA (Center for Astrophysics) links

LAB experiments
       Lab #1 The scale of the universe NSF
       Lab #2 Big Bang Balloon activity Page 21 Discovery Channel
       Lab #3 How the Universe will End--which theory is likely? Why? Science Museum, London
       Lab #4 Big Bang Simulation activity NASA

Aerospace CONNECTIONS:
Origins of the Universe National Geographic video
The Interferometer that helped to discover the Big Bang Theory AND a Radiometer and a Cryostat Smithsonian Learning Lab
Applications and examples

EXTENSION material for the curious
Listen to the sound of the universe from the Planck spacecraft  NASA
And Shock waves in the galaxy NASA
 
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