Structure and Composition of the Universe

Study Notes

Structure and Composition of the Universe

The universe includes all space, time, matter, and energy.
Composition:
- 4.6% baryonic matter (ordinary matter: protons, electrons, neutrons, and all atomic structures).
- 24% cold dark matter (exerts gravitational effects but doesn’t emit light).
- 71.4% dark energy (provides anti-gravity, contributing to the universe's expansion).

Role of Dark Matter and Dark Energy

Dark matter helps explain the gravitational binding of galaxies despite low total visible mass.
Dark energy accounts for the observed acceleration in the universe's expansion.

Abundant Elements and Star Formation

The most prevalent elements in the universe are hydrogen, helium, and lithium.
Stars originate from clouds of gas and dust through processes that lead to gravitational collapse and heating, resulting in the formation of proto stars.

Stellar Lifecycle

Stellar interiors function as stellar furnaces, where element fusion occurs.
Most stars, including the Sun, are classified as main sequence stars.
In main sequence stars, hydrogen is fused into helium through thermonuclear reactions.
Larger main sequence stars exhaust their hydrogen supplies faster than smaller ones, typically within a few million years compared to the Sun's 10 billion years.

Star Evolution and Galactic Structure

The remnants of star formation may evolve into planets, asteroids, or other celestial bodies within planetary systems.
A galaxy consists of billions of stars, while groups of galaxies form superclusters.
Cosmic space between clusters is relatively empty, contributing to the vast structure of the universe.

Description

Explore the fundamental aspects of the universe, including its structure, composition, and age. This quiz delves into the proportions of baryonic matter, cold dark matter, and dark energy that make up the cosmos. Test your understanding of these crucial concepts in astrophysics.