Nebular Theory

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What is Nebular Theory?

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A scientific theory that explains the formation of stars and planetary systems from a cloud of gas and dust in space.

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What is a protostar?

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A protostar is a dense region within a nebula that is in the process of forming into a star.

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What happens when a protostar's core becomes hot and dense?

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Nuclear fusion begins, leading to the birth of a star.

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What is the significance of a supernova in star formation?

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A supernova can trigger the collapse of nearby nebulae, leading to the formation of new stars.

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What is the first event in the formation of the solar system?

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About 4.6 billion years ago, a cloud of stellar dust or nebula existed within the Milky Way.

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What occurs after a supernova shock wave hits a nebula?

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The nebula begins to collapse under its own gravity.

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What is the last event in the formation of the solar system?

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About 4.5 billion years ago, pieces of rock and ice accumulated to form planets and moons.

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How does a nebula begin to spin and flatten?

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As it collapses under gravity, conservation of angular momentum causes it to spin and flatten.

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What role does gravity play in the formation of stars?

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Gravity causes the gas and dust in a nebula to clump together, forming protostars.

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What is the relationship between a nebula and a star?

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A nebula is the birthplace of stars, providing the material needed for their formation.