Questions and Answers
What is Earth Science?
The study of earth's structure, properties, processes and four and a half billion years of biotic evolution.
Which of the following are branches of Earth Science? (Select all that apply)
Who first suggested the Big Bang Theory?
George Lemaitre.
What is the age of the Universe according to current theories?
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The first two elements formed after the Big Bang were hydrogen and helium.
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Match the following scientists with their contributions to cosmology:
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What does dark energy do?
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The heliocentric model proposed by Nicolaus Copernicus suggests that the ___ is at the center of the universe.
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The Nebular Hypothesis explains the formation of the solar system.
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Which of these is NOT a terrestrial planet?
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What is a galaxy?
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Study Notes
Earth & Life Science Overview
- Earth Science encompasses the study of Earth's structure, properties, processes, and 4.5 billion years of biotic evolution.
- Integrates both life science and physical science to provide a comprehensive understanding of Earth.
Biological Science
- Biological science is the study of living organisms.
- Distinction between biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) organisms is fundamental.
Main Branches of Earth Science
- Astronomy: Study of celestial bodies, such as planets and stars.
- Meteorology: Study of the atmosphere and weather patterns.
- Oceanography: Study of oceans and their processes.
- Geology: Study of Earth's solid materials, including rocks and minerals.
Key Scientific Figures in Cosmology
- Georges Lemaître: Proposed the Big Bang Theory, suggesting the universe began from a hot, dense point.
- Edwin Hubble: Supported Lemaître’s theory and discovered the universe is expanding.
- Arno Penzias & Robert Wilson: Found microwave radiation in 1965, further substantiating the Big Bang Theory.
The Big Bang Theory
- The universe was formed approximately 13.8 billion years ago from a hot, small "cosmic egg."
- Initial formation took place in less than a second, leading to rapid expansion.
- Big Crunch hypothesizes a potential future where the universe could collapse back in on itself.
Formation of Elements
- Nucleosynthesis refers to the formation of elements (hydrogen, helium, lithium) through proton and neutron combinations.
Stars and Galaxies
- The first star formed from clouds of hydrogen and helium over 200-400 million years.
- Galaxies formed as stars clustered together.
- Dark matter and dark energy play crucial roles in the universe's structure and expansion.
Alternate Theories of the Universe
- Steady State Theory: Proposed by Sir James Jeans; suggests the universe has no beginning or end, existing in a steady state.
- Cosmic Inflation Theory: Formulated by Alan Guth; explains rapid expansion of the universe right after the Big Bang.
Structures in the Universe
- Galaxies: Massive collections of stars, gas, and dust; the Milky Way is a barred spiral galaxy containing our solar system.
- Solar System: Comprised of the sun and celestial bodies orbiting it, including planets and moons.
Models of the Universe
- Geocentric Model: Earth-centered view proposed by Ptolemy.
- Heliocentric Model: Sun-centered perspective introduced by Nicolaus Copernicus, later confirmed by Galileo leading to the Copernican Revolution.
Philosophical Contributions
- Rene Descartes: Proposed vortex theory explaining the formation of the sun and planets.
- Immanuel Kant: Introduced the Nebular hypothesis which describes solar system formation from gas and dust.
Astronomical Institutions
- The International Astronomical Union is an international NGO focused on astronomical issues.
Characteristics of the Sun
- The sun, composed mainly of hydrogen and helium, serves as the solar system's core, providing essential light and heat for Earth.
Terrestrial Planets
- The inner planets include Mercury and Venus, which have distinct characteristics contrasting with gas giants.
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Description
Explore the fascinating world of Earth and Life Science, focusing on the Earth's structure, processes, and the evolution of life over billions of years. This quiz also delves into the four main branches of Earth Science: Astronomy, Meteorology, Oceanography, and Geology, providing a broad perspective on both biological and physical sciences.
