(6) Other evidence for the 'Big Bang Theory' of the universe

• As well as the 'red-shift' evidence, there is other evidence for the Big Bang theory of the origin of the universe, and not the steady state theory.

• Cosmic microwave background radiation

  • (CMBR or CMB radiation)

  • Apparently both the Steady State model and Big Bang model both explain the observed red-shifts and expansion of a universe from our observations that objects like galaxies are moving away from us in all directions, BUT, the Steady State model cannot explain CMBR.

  • Radio-astronomers have detected low frequency microwave radiation coming from all directions from all parts of our universe - known as cosmic background microwave radiation (CMBR).

    • Microwave radiation is part of the electromagnetic spectrum, but the CMBR is of lower frequency than in your microwave cooker!

    • This microwave radiation was accidently discovered, and still studied, using a radio telescope.

  • It is believed that this radiation comes from radiation that was present shortly after the beginning of the universe, i.e. soon after the 'Big Bang' started.

  • CMBR is associated with low temperatures as the young universe was cooling down and the background radiation reduces in frequency.

• The ‘Big Bang’ theory is currently the only theory that can explain the existence of CMBR.

• If other evidence comes to light, the theory may have to be modified - 'watch this space'!

• INDEX for physics notes on COSMOLOGY

Know there is the cosmic microwave background radiation (CMBR, CMB) from all directions in our universe.

Know that cosmic microwave background radiation (CMBR) is a form of electromagnetic radiation filling the universe.

Know that cosmic microwave background radiation provides  other evidence for the 'Big Bang Theory' of the universe (the other is the red shift in spectral lines from distant objects in the Universe).

Know that cosmic microwave background radiation does not fit in with the steady state model of universe.

Appreciate that the ‘Big Bang’ theory is currently the only theory that can explain the existence of CMBR.