Astronomy & Meteorology Final Review

Front

What is a supernova?

Back

An enormous explosion that occurs when a massive star dies.

Front

What are the three main types of galaxies?

Back

Elliptical, spiral, and irregular.

Front

What determines the life cycles of stars?

Back

The mass (size) of the star.

Front

What does the big bang theory state about the universe?

Back

The universe began as an explosion and is still expanding.

Front

What is the significance of the redshift in distant galaxies?

Back

It indicates that the universe is expanding.

Front

What is the largest astronomical distance measurement?

Back

Parsec.

Front

What is a black hole?

Back

A region of space where the gravitational pull is so strong that nothing, not even light, can escape from it.

Front

What is nuclear fusion?

Back

The process by which two or more atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.

Front

What is solar wind?

Back

A stream of charged particles released from the upper atmosphere of the Sun.

Front

What is the difference between a light year and a parsec?

Back

A light year is the distance light travels in one year, while a parsec is approximately 3.26 light years.