E4+COSMOLOGY

Back to IB PHYSICS > IB ASTROPHYSICS OPTION E1-E4 are the sections required for the SL option =COSMOLOGY= [|January 2014: brightest supernova since 1987] media type="custom" key="12512124" ** Olbers’ paradox ** Describe Newton’s model of the universe. Students should know that Newton assumed an infinite (in space and time), uniform and static universe.
 * E1 INTRODUCTION TO THE UNIVERSE || E2 STELLAR RADIATION AND STELLAR TYPES || E3 STELLAR DISTANCES || E4 COSMOLOGY || E5 STELLAR PROCESSES AND STELLAR EVOLUTION || E6 GALAXIES AND THE EXPANDING UNIVERSE ||

Explain Olbers’ paradox. Students should be able to show quantitatively, using the inverse square law of luminosity, that Newton’s model of the universe leads to a sky that should never be dark. media type="custom" key="23434060" ** The Big Bang model **

Suggest that the red-shift of light from galaxies indicates that the universe is expanding. Describe both space and time as originating with the Big Bang. Students should appreciate that the universe is not expanding into a void.

Describe the discovery of cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation by Penzias and Wilson. media type="custom" key="24973064"

Explain how cosmic radiation in the microwave region is consistent with the Big Bang model.

A simple explanation in terms of the universe “cooling down” is all that is required. media type="custom" key="24974474" Suggest how the Big Bang model provides a resolution to Olbers’ paradox.

** The development of the universe **

Distinguish between the terms open, flat and closed when used to describe the development of the universe.

Define the term //critical density// by reference to a flat model of the development of the universe. Discuss how the density of the universe determines the development of the universe.

Discuss problems associated with determining the density of the universe.

This statement is included to give the students a flavour for the ongoing and complex current nature of research. They should be able to discuss relevant observations and possible explanations. They should recognize that, in common with many other aspects of our universe, much about the phenomena is currently not well understood. Teachers should include dark matter, MACHOs and WIMPs.

State that current scientific evidence suggests that the universe is open.

Discuss an example of the international nature of recent astrophysics research. It is sufficient for students to outline any astrophysics project that is funded by more than one country. TOUR THE ISS VIDEO media type="custom" key="25016906" media type="custom" key="8620400" Evaluate arguments related to investing significant resources into researching the nature of the universe.

Students should be able to demonstrate their ability to understand the issues involved in deciding priorities for scientific research as well as being able to express their own opinions coherently.