18 Questions
What is the primary reason why we do not observe the mass in the outer regions of galaxies in visible light?
It is not very luminous.
What would happen to the spiral arms of galaxies if they consisted of the same material?
They would wind up very tightly.
Why do the orbital periods of stars in galactic disks vary?
Because of the differential rotation of the galaxy.
What is the implication of not observing tightly wound spiral arms in galaxies?
Spiral structure is a transient phenomenon, or it is a wave phenomenon, or both.
What is the name of the scientist who described the orbits of stars in self-gravitating stellar disks?
Per Olaf Lindblad
What type of motion do stars in self-gravitating stellar disks exhibit?
Epicyclic motion
What is the shape of the distribution of globular clusters in the galaxy according to Shapley's findings?
Spherical
What was the significance of Shapley's discovery of the globular cluster distribution?
It showed we are not at the center of the universe
What advantage did Shapley have over Kapteyn in determining the distribution of globular clusters?
He looked at objects located out of the plane of our galaxy
What did Jan Oort measure to determine the dynamics of the galactic disk near the sun?
The Doppler shifts of the stars
What was the model of the disk of our galaxy near the sun according to Jan Oort's research?
A circular shape with circular orbits
What was the shape of the distribution of bright, giant stars observed by Jan Oort?
Flattened
What is thought to be responsible for the strength and beauty of the spiral in the Whirlpool Galaxy, M51?
The passage of the companion galaxy
What was the limitation of the computer simulation of the passage of the smaller galaxy past M51?
It was unable to reproduce the very prominent spiral structure in the inner regions of M51
What is the purpose of using computer simulations in astronomy?
To test theoretical models of galaxy formation and evolution
What is the predicted outcome of the passage of the companion galaxy by M51?
The exhibition of a very strong spiral structure in M51
What is the main difficulty in using General Relativity to calculate the behavior of two very compact massive objects in close proximity?
The complexity of the calculations
What is the focus of the discussion of General Relativity in this context?
The principle of equivalence and the definition of a straight line
This quiz explores the rotation curves and mass distribution of spiral galaxies, including the Milky Way. It delves into the winding dilemma and the characteristics of spiral arms. Learn about the structure and evolution of galaxies.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
