8.8A Components of the Universe Mini Flashcard #1

Front

What is a star?

Back

A large celestial body made of gases that emits light due to nuclear reactions.

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What is a comet?

Back

A small celestial object made of ice and dust that, when close to the sun, develops a tail of gas and dust.

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What is a galaxy?

Back

A massive system of stars, stellar remnants, interstellar gas, dust, and dark matter, bound together by gravity.

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What is a nebula?

Back

An interstellar cloud of dust and gas, often the birthplace of stars.

Front

What is the order of components of the universe from smallest to largest?

Back

Planets, stars, nebulae, galaxies.

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What is the main sequence phase of a star?

Back

The stable phase in a star's life where it fuses hydrogen into helium in its core.

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What is an asteroid?

Back

A small rocky body that orbits the sun, primarily found in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter.

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What is a meteor?

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A small particle from space that burns up upon entering Earth's atmosphere, often seen as a shooting star.

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What is the difference between a star and a planet?

Back

A star emits its own light due to nuclear fusion, while a planet reflects light from a star.

Front

What is the life cycle of a star?

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A star goes through several stages: nebula, protostar, main sequence, red giant, and then either a white dwarf, neutron star, or black hole.