The Big Bang Theory and the origin of the Universe

The Big Bang theory is a commonly accepted theory of how the Universe began. If you have been interested in astronomy for any period of time at all, then you have probably heard about it.

According to the Big Bang theory, our Universe burst into sudden existence in a massive explosion called the Big Bang and it's still evolving. The Big Bang probably occurred around 13.7 billion years ago if the theory is valid.

A primeval fireball

All of the matter and radiation in the universe started out in an extremely hot, dense state similar to a primeval fireball. From this state, the universe expanded rapidly. The Big Bang was the beginning of time and space as we know it. Matter and radiation from the fireball expanded and cooled. within seconds, protons, neutrons and electrons formed. Minutes later, hydrogen, helium, and other trace elements were created.

Galaxies and stars have their beginning

Millions and millions of years later, as matter and radiation separated, galaxies and stars started to form.

From what we can observe, the Universe continues to expand even today, and galaxies move farther and farther apart. Stars are still forming with the original hydrogen from the Big Bang. From what we can see, the universe is composed of approximately 74 percent hydrogen, 24 percent helium, and other trace elements as the theory predicts.

Predicting the future of the Universe

Most people generally accept the idea of the Big Bang as the origin of the Universe. Astronomers have differing opinions about what may happen to the universe in the future. We know that there is a finite amount of hydrogen in existence and once it's gone, all stars will stop shining. The Universe surely can't continue to expand forever.

The search for knowledge continues

Whatever may or may not happen, you can be sure that astronomers will continue to study the universe in search of answers about the beginnings of existence itself. Who knows, the Big Bang thoery itself might give way to a better theory.

Watch this video about the Big Bang