Contributions to Space Exploration and Physics

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

Which theory did Fred Hoyle propose related to the universe's structure?

Big Bang Theory
Relativity Theory
Steady-State Theory (correct)
Quantum Theory

What significant contribution did Katherine Johnson make to space exploration?

Designing rockets for satellite launches
Developing a new propulsion system
Calculating trajectories for space missions (correct)
Studying the effects of microgravity on human health

What was the focus of Irene Uchida's research in genetics?

Chromosomal structures in cancer cells
Gene therapy techniques for genetic disorders
Health effects of environmental factors on genes
Chromosome differences in genetic conditions (correct)

Which accomplishment is Yvonne Brill known for in aerospace engineering?

Inventing a propulsion system for stationary orbit (B) Signup and view all the answers

What did Vera Rubin discover about the motion of stars in spiral galaxies?

There is no significant difference in the speed of stars regardless of their position (D) Signup and view all the answers

What area of physics did Abdus Salam primarily contribute to?

Electroweak theory (A) Signup and view all the answers

During which period did Katherine Johnson begin her work at NACA?

1953 (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which key achievement is associated with Vera Rubin's studies by 1985?

Examining 60 spiral galaxies for stellar motion (A) Signup and view all the answers

What was Peter Higgs' main contribution to physics?

Developed a theory explaining the origin of mass of elementary particles. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which scientist was awarded a Nobel Prize for the discovery of the gene responsible for a specific disease?

Lap-Chee Tsui (D) Signup and view all the answers

Who contributed to the understanding of synaptic function in memory and learning?

Eric Kandel (C) Signup and view all the answers

What significant achievement is Mae Carol Jemison recognized for?

Being the first African American woman in space. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which scientist's work led to regulations on substances harmful to the ozone layer?

Mario J. Molina (A) Signup and view all the answers

What method did Donna Strickland develop that revolutionized laser technology?

Chirped pulse amplification. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which pair of scientists shared the Nobel Prize focusing on telomeres and cancer research?

Carol Greider and Elizabeth Blackburn (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which scientist's work was pivotal in understanding the connection between laser technology and precision measurements?

Donna Strickland (A) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Steady-State Theory

A cosmological model proposing that the universe has always existed in its current state, with new matter continuously forming, and its expansion will continue indefinitely.

Electroweak Theory

A unified theory of the electromagnetic and weak forces in physics, explaining the interaction of subatomic particles.

Dark Matter in Galaxies

Unseen matter in galaxies affecting the orbital speed of stars in outer regions, contradicting Newtonian gravity.

Katherine Johnson's Role

A key mathematician who calculated trajectories for space missions, including Alan Shepard's, starting at NACA.