Astrophysics and Supercomputing Quiz

What is the primary reason some astrophysics problems cannot be solved on a normal computer?

• They are too simple for normal computers.

• They involve complex calculations that need more power.

• They need specialized software not available on normal computers.

• They require more storage space.

What is an AGN?

• A planet with high luminosity.

• A star that emits strong radio waves.

• A supermassive black hole at the center of a galaxy.

• A type of galaxy with no black hole.

Why are low luminosity AGN jets harder to study?

• They are too far away from Earth.

• They often do not leave their galaxies and are compact.

• They emit no radiation.

• They are too bright to observe.

What is the purpose of using a code like Athena in astrophysics research?

• To create visual simulations of galaxies.

• To perform a wide range of simulations from planet formation to supernovas.

• To communicate with other researchers.

• To store large amounts of data.

What is required to gain access to supercomputer time?

• A personal visit to the supercomputer facility.

• A recommendation from a senior scientist.

• A simple online request.

• A detailed justification and explanation of the project.

How long can the formal review process for supercomputer time take?

• 1 to 3 months

• 3 to 6 months

• 6 to 18 months

• 18 to 24 months

What is a key challenge in the simulation process described?

• Finding the right software.

• Running simulations without errors.

• Iteratively adjusting code and analyzing data over months.

• Communicating results to the public.

What unexpected result was found from the AGN simulations?

• Low power AGN jets have a significant impact on their host galaxies.

• Low power AGN jets have no impact on galaxies.

• AGN jets are always smooth and predictable.

• AGN jets do not interact with their host galaxies.

What can happen to AGN jets as they interact with their host galaxy?

• They always increase in speed.

• They become invisible.

• They can only move in a straight line.

• They can be split, deflected, or stopped.

What is one of the two major insights about low power AGN jets from the research?

• They are simple and smooth.

• The galaxy has a significant influence on the appearance of the jets.

• They are unaffected by the galaxy's environment.

• They are always visible in optical wavelengths.