Stefan's Quintet and Galactic Mergers

What is unique about the galaxy on the left in Stefan's Quintet?

• It is the largest galaxy in the group.

• It is much closer to us than the other four galaxies.

• It is the only spiral galaxy in the group.

• It is the brightest galaxy in the group.

What effect does the gravitational interaction have on the galaxies in Stefan's Quintet?

• It causes them to move away from each other.

• It leads to the formation of black holes.

• It distorts their structures and leads to star formation.

• It makes them change color.

What is a common outcome of galaxies being close enough to each other?

• They merge and form new galaxies.

• They explode and create supernovae.

• They become invisible to telescopes.

• They stop rotating.

Why is observing Stefan's Quintet important for understanding our universe?

• It shows how galaxies can change color over time.

• It provides insight into the process of galactic mergers.

• It helps us understand the role of black holes in galaxy formation.

• It reveals the presence of dark matter.

What do scientists believe about the Milky Way's history with mergers?

• It has never experienced a merger.

• It will never experience a merger.

• It is currently merging with another galaxy.

• It has experienced at least one merger and will again.