1. (Ch. 12) How is the Hubble Constant (H) related to the age of the universe? Hypothetically, if the value of the Hubble Constant were 700 km/s/Mpc, what would this imply about the age of our universe? (Hint: is this hypothetical value of H larger or smaller than the actual value)2. Which elements were formed during the Big Bang, and how was it possible for Nucleosynthesis to occur then?3. (Ch. 13) Describe one method for detecting extrasolar planets. Give the name of the method, and explain how it works. Use online resources to report on one planet discovered using this method.Use (and cite) online resources to answer the following TWO questions.4. What is the current concentration of CO2 in Earth’s atmosphere in units of parts per million? When, in the last 1000 years, has the CO2 level been this high?5. Try to use data from the most recent year available.A.) How much Carbon Dioxide do the people of Earth add to the atmosphere in one year? B.) Which four countries contribute the most CO2 to the atmosphere?6. How does the surface temperature of Venus compare to surface temperatures on Earth? Why is Venus this temperature?7. (Ch. 14) What is the significance of the Miller-Urey Experiment?8. Name three factors you would consider crucial for the development of life on another planet. Why arethey important?9. There are 100 billion stars in our Milky Way galaxy. Based on everything you have learned in this course, and any other ideas you may have, make an estimate of the number of planets in our galaxy on which some type of life has formed.10. There are many types of life. On Earth, these range in size from microbes to blue whales and giant sequoia trees. Now, estimate the number of planets in our galaxy that have intelligent life with which we might someday communicate.Note: If you aren’t sure how to approach this question, consult the discussion of the Drake Equation in Section 4 of Chapter 14, in your textbook (it will also help with the previous question). But make your own estimate of the factors involved and the total number of intelligent extraterrestrial civilizations with which we might communicate. Do you think humans will ever make contact with extraterrestrials?
