4
.docx
keyboard_arrow_up
School
Harvard University *
*We aren’t endorsed by this school
Course
6683
Subject
Astronomy
Date
Jan 9, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
2
Uploaded by MateFangScorpion33 on coursehero.com
Question 1:
a) Define astronomy and explain its significance in understanding the universe.
Answer:
Astronomy is the scientific study of celestial objects, such as stars, planets, galaxies, and the
universe as a whole. It plays a vital role in understanding the origins, evolution, and structure of
the universe, helping us comprehend our place in the cosmos.
b) Differentiate between a star and a planet, providing examples of each.
Answer:
A star is a luminous celestial body consisting of hot gases that generate energy through nuclear
fusion, emitting light and heat. Examples include the Sun, Alpha Centauri, and Sirius.
A planet is a celestial body that orbits a star, is spherical in shape due to its gravitational forces,
and does not produce its own light. Examples include Earth, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn.
Question 2:
a) Describe the life cycle of a star, including its various stages.
Answer:
Stars go through stages based on their mass. The life cycle starts from a nebula, where gravity
causes the formation of a protostar. The protostar evolves into a main-sequence star, like our
Sun. After the main sequence, depending on its mass, a star can become a red giant, a
supernova, and eventually a white dwarf, neutron star, or black hole.
b) Explain the concept of a black hole and its formation.
Answer:
A black hole is a region in space where gravity is so strong that nothing, not even light, can
escape from it. They are formed from the remnants of massive stars that have undergone a
supernova explosion, collapsing under their own gravity.
Question 3:
a) Discuss the difference between a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse.
Answer:
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun's
light from reaching Earth. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and the
Moon, causing the Earth's shadow to cover the Moon.
b) Explain the concept of the "Big Bang Theory" and its significance in cosmology.
Answer:
The Big Bang Theory suggests that the universe originated from an incredibly dense and hot
state approximately 13.8 billion years ago, followed by a rapid expansion. This theory provides a
framework for understanding the universe's expansion, formation of galaxies, and the cosmic
microwave background radiation, supporting our understanding of the universe's evolution.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help