Science Physics Flashcards
(28 cards)
What is meant by geocentric?
The Earth-centered model of the universe
The geocentric model places Earth at the center of the Universe, with all celestial bodies orbiting around it.
What is our present model of the Solar System?
The heliocentric model
The heliocentric model posits that the Sun is at the center of the Solar System.
What is the age of the Solar System?
Approximately 4.6 billion years
This estimate is based on radiometric dating of the oldest meteorites.
What is the theory of how the Universe started?
The Big Bang theory
The Big Bang theory suggests that the Universe began from an extremely hot and dense state.
What are the orbits a satellite can take?
Geostationary, polar, elliptical, and low Earth orbit
Different orbits serve various purposes for satellites, including communication and Earth observation.
What are some uses of satellites?
Communication, weather monitoring, GPS, and Earth observation
Satellites play a crucial role in modern technology and scientific research.
What is one risk and one benefit of the space programme?
Risk: High costs; Benefit: Advancement of technology
The space programme can be expensive but leads to significant technological advancements.
What is one use of telescopes?
Observing distant celestial objects
Telescopes allow astronomers to study stars, planets, and galaxies.
What are the two types of telescopes?
Reflecting and refracting telescopes
Reflecting telescopes use mirrors, while refracting telescopes use lenses to gather light.
What conditions are required for life like that on Earth to exist?
Liquid water, suitable temperature range, and atmosphere
These conditions are essential for sustaining life as we know it.
Describe the geocentric model of the Solar System.
A model where the Earth is at the center, and all celestial bodies orbit around it
This model was widely accepted before the heliocentric model gained prominence.
How did observations lead to a different model of the Solar System?
Observations of planetary motions and retrograde motion challenged the geocentric model
These observations prompted the development of the heliocentric model.
Describe the heliocentric model of the Solar System.
A model where the Sun is at the center, and planets orbit around it
This model was proposed by Copernicus and later supported by Galileo and Kepler.
What is the timescale of the Universe?
Approximately 13.8 billion years
This timescale includes the age of the Universe from the Big Bang to the present.
What is meant by the Big Bang?
The event that marks the beginning of the Universe
The Big Bang theory describes the rapid expansion of space from a singularity.
How do you get a satellite into orbit?
By launching it with sufficient speed and angle to achieve orbital velocity
This involves overcoming Earth’s gravitational pull.
How do astronomers use telescopes?
To gather light and magnify distant celestial objects for study
Telescopes enhance our ability to observe and understand the universe.
How do astronomers search for life on other planets?
By analyzing atmospheres, looking for biosignatures, and studying exoplanets
Techniques such as spectroscopy are used to identify potential signs of life.
What are some similarities and differences between different models of the Solar System?
Similarities: Both models describe planetary movements; Differences: Geocentric has Earth at the center, heliocentric has the Sun
Understanding these models helps illustrate the evolution of astronomical thought.
What is the importance of evidence in developing the heliocentric model?
Evidence from observations supported the heliocentric model over the geocentric model
Key observations include the phases of Venus and the moons of Jupiter.
Why could atoms not be formed immediately after the Big Bang?
The Universe was too hot and dense for atoms to form
It took several hundred thousand years for the Universe to cool enough for atoms to form.
What are ways in which the Big Bang theory is supported by evidence?
Cosmic microwave background radiation, redshift of galaxies, and abundance of light elements
These observations provide strong support for the Big Bang theory.
How do the orbits of different satellites compare?
They vary based on altitude, inclination, and purpose
Different missions require different orbital characteristics.
What are the different uses of satellites?
Telecommunications, Earth monitoring, navigation, and scientific research
Each type of satellite serves specific functions in modern society.
