Because of the Travel Time of Light, Astronomers See More

question 27

Multiple Choice

Because of the travel time of light, astronomers see more distant parts of the universe as they were when the universe was younger, but they cannot see back "into" times when the universe was opaque and light could not travel freely. Using photons, then, what is the furthest back in time that astronomers can when they look out into the universe?

• A) 1/1 millionth seconds after the start of the Big Bang
• B) 380,000 years after the start of the Big Bang
• C) 3 minutes after the start of the Big Bang
• D) 3000 years after the start of the Big Bang

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Definitions:

Martin Luther

A seminal figure in the Protestant Reformation, known for his criticisms of the Roman Catholic Church and the posting of his 95 Theses in 1517.

Act of Supremacy

The 1534 legislation passed by the English Parliament that recognized Henry VIII as the Supreme Head of the Church of England, marking the start of the English Reformation.

1534

A year notable for events like the enactment of the Act of Supremacy, which established King Henry VIII as the head of the Church of England.

Church of England

The primary state church of England, established in the 16th century by King Henry VIII's separation from the Roman Catholic Church.