Following the Big Bang, the universe underwent several key stages of evolution:
Inflation: A rapid expansion that occurred within the first fraction of a second, smoothing out any irregularities. Recombination: About 380,000 years after the Big Bang, electrons combined with protons to form neutral hydrogen atoms, allowing photons to travel freely and creating the CMB. Formation of Stars and Galaxies: Gravitational attraction led to the formation of stars, galaxies, and other large structures. Dark Energy: Discovered in the late 20th century, dark energy is thought to be responsible for the accelerated expansion of the universe.
