Question

according to the big bang theory, all matter in the universe started at the same point in space (and time) and has been expanding ever since. the big bang theory replaced the static model-that the universe always had existed, was neither expanding nor contracting, and has no beginning and no end.

which of the following observations supports the big bang theory and contradicts the static model?

a. most galaxies are moving away from each other.
b. different kinds of radiation are produced and absorbed by different things.
c. stars are continuously being created and burning out or exploding.
d. galaxies move as though they have far more mass than can be seen.

Explanation:

Analyze the two models

The prompt describes two competing models of the universe:

1. The Big Bang Theory: States that the universe began at a single point and has been expanding ever since.
2. The Static Model: States that the universe has always existed in a constant, unchanging state, neither expanding nor contracting.

Evaluate the observations

We need to find an observation that supports expansion (Big Bang) and contradicts a stationary state (Static Model):

• Option A: "Most galaxies are moving away from each other." If galaxies are moving apart, the universe is expanding. This directly supports the Big Bang theory's expansion premise and contradicts the static model's claim of no expansion.
• Option B: "Different kinds of radiation are produced and absorbed..." This is a general physical fact about electromagnetic radiation, not a differentiator between these cosmological models.
• Option C: "Stars are continuously being created and burning out..." Stellar life cycles occur in both expanding and static models.
• Option D: "Galaxies move as though they have far more mass..." This relates to dark matter, not the overall expansion of space.

Formulate the conclusion

The observation that most galaxies are moving away from each other (observed via redshift) is direct evidence of an expanding universe, supporting the Big Bang theory and contradicting the static model.

Answer:

• (A) Most galaxies are moving away from each other. (Correct answer)
• (B) Different kinds of radiation are produced and absorbed by different things.
• (C) Stars are continuously being created and burning out or exploding.
• (D) Galaxies move as though they have far more mass than can be seen.