Types of Galaxies

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What are the main types of galaxies?

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The main types of galaxies are spiral, elliptical, and irregular.

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What is a spiral galaxy?

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A spiral galaxy is a type of galaxy characterized by its spiral arms that wind outward from the center, often containing young stars, gas, and dust.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-2

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What is an elliptical galaxy?

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An elliptical galaxy is a type of galaxy that has an ellipsoidal shape and lacks the distinct features of spiral galaxies, often containing older stars and little gas or dust.

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What is an irregular galaxy?

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An irregular galaxy is a type of galaxy that does not have a distinct regular shape, often containing a mix of young and old stars, gas, and dust.

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What is the Hubble classification scheme?

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The Hubble classification scheme is a system used to categorize galaxies based on their appearance, including spiral, elliptical, and irregular types.

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What are the characteristics of spiral galaxies?

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Spiral galaxies typically have a flat, rotating disk containing stars, gas, and dust, along with a central concentration of stars known as the bulge.

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What are the characteristics of elliptical galaxies?

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Elliptical galaxies are characterized by their smooth, featureless light profiles and a range of sizes, from dwarf to giant, with older stars and minimal star formation.

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What are the characteristics of irregular galaxies?

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Irregular galaxies have no defined shape, often exhibit chaotic structures, and contain a high amount of gas and dust, leading to active star formation.

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How do galaxies form?

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Galaxies form through the gravitational attraction of matter, leading to the coalescence of gas and dust, which eventually forms stars and galaxies.

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What role do dark matter and dark energy play in galaxies?

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Dark matter provides the gravitational framework for galaxies, while dark energy is thought to drive the accelerated expansion of the universe, affecting galaxy formation and evolution.