Formation of the Milky Way

Front

What is the primary theory regarding the formation of the Milky Way galaxy?

Back

The Milky Way galaxy most likely formed from collisions of smaller irregular galaxies.

Front

What evidence supports the theory that the Milky Way formed from smaller galaxies?

Back

Evidence includes the chaotic orbits of halo stars.

Front

What is dark matter?

Back

Dark matter is a form of matter that does not emit, reflect, or absorb light.

Front

What percentage of the universe's mass is made up of dark matter?

Back

Dark matter makes up about 84% of the mass in the universe.

Front

How do most stars orbit in the Milky Way?

Back

The vast majority of stars orbit in mostly one direction around the central bulge.

Front

What role do collisions of galaxies play in the formation of galaxies like the Milky Way?

Back

Collisions of smaller galaxies contribute to the growth and structure of larger galaxies.

Front

What are halo stars?

Back

Halo stars are older stars that orbit the center of the galaxy in a more chaotic manner.

Front

Why is dark matter considered mysterious?

Back

Dark matter is mysterious because it does not interact with electromagnetic forces, making it invisible and detectable only through its gravitational effects.

Front

What is the significance of the central bulge in the Milky Way?

Back

The central bulge is a dense region of stars at the center of the Milky Way, influencing the orbits of surrounding stars.

Front

How do astronomers infer the presence of dark matter?

Back

Astronomers infer the presence of dark matter through its gravitational effects on visible matter, such as stars and galaxies.