Today, most scientists think that the universe was formed about 15 billion years ago in a colossal explosion called "Big Bang". By then all the matter that currently exists in the universe (including us) was compressed in a tiny point, and the universe exploded in all directions. At first towards unimaginable heat, but with the increase of the expansion, it cooled. The universe continues to expand and cool down today.
The first atoms
When the universe had 4 minutes of life, the scientists believe that it had already cooled sufficiently so that the particles joined and formed the pimeros atoms. Atoms are the foundation of all that exists in the universe.
A look to the past
Most distant galaxies are so far apart that the light that comes from them takes millions of years to reach us. Consequently, when scientists observe the galaxies see them as they were millions of years ago.
Map of the universe
In 1992, the COBE satellite produced a microwave map of the sky where a slight glow appeared. That glow is energy that is left over from the big bang.
Universe in expansion
The tremendous strength of the big bang still keeps the galaxies apart. Let's make a practical example. In a balloon it draws several galaxies. This represents the universe. Now inflate your universe in a balloon and you will see how the galaxies are separated from each other.
History of the universe
The universe is born with an immense explosion called big bang.
The energy ball formed by the explosion expands and begins to cool.
The first particles of matter are formed.
The first stars are formed from vast clouds of gas.
The galaxies are moving away from each other.
Curiosities
- The universe can continue to expand forever or it can stop expanding and contracting again. If it contracts, it will end in a big contraction or "Big Crunch".
- The Big Crunch could be the Big Bang that starts a new universe.
Images taken from GOOGLE and PIXABAY CC0.
Gif taken from GOOGLE.
