Questions and Answers
Which phrase best defines a galaxy?
Which term refers to large groupings of stars?
What phrase best defines a star system?
Which type of star cluster forms from tightly packed groups of older stars?
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Which characteristics describe a spiral galaxy? Check all that apply.
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Which sentences describe star clusters? Check all that apply.
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Which statements accurately describe binary star systems? Check all that apply.
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Which feature is used to classify galaxies?
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Look at this image of a galaxy. Which type of galaxy is shown?
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Two types of spiral galaxies exist. A normal spiral galaxy is one kind. Which phrase best describes the second type of spiral galaxy?
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Study Notes
Galaxies
- A galaxy is defined as a large collection of stars, gas, and dust held together by gravity.
- Galaxies can vary in shape and structure, with some examples being spiral galaxies and elliptical galaxies.
Star Systems
- A star system consists of a group of two or more stars that are gravitationally bound.
- Binary star systems, a specific type of star system, contains two stars that may have differing brightness levels.
Star Clusters
- Star clusters are grouped collections of stars that can form in large quantities from the same nebula.
- There are two types of star clusters: globular, which are tightly packed older star groups, and open clusters, which are more loosely organized.
Spiral Galaxies
- Characteristics of spiral galaxies include a pinwheel shape, active star formation in their arms, and a significant amount of gas and dust.
- They are generally larger and can contain both new and older stars.
Classification of Galaxies
- Galaxies are classified based on their shape. Color, age, and size also serve as classification parameters but shape is the primary characteristic used.
- Examples include normal spiral galaxies and barred spiral galaxies, the latter having a distinct bar-shaped structure from which arms extend.
Binary Star Systems
- In binary star systems, stars might appear to wobble due to gravitational interactions, but they are not limited to two stars; multiple stars can exist within a complex system.
Characteristics of Star Clusters
- In star clusters, stars can be various distances from Earth, and while they generally form from the same nebula, the grouping can include stars formed at different times.
Notable Galaxy Types
- Elliptical galaxies have a smooth and featureless shape, distinguishing them from the more structured spiral galaxies.
- Irregular galaxies lack a distinct shape and can vary widely in appearance.
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Description
Test your knowledge of star systems and galaxies with these flashcards. The quiz covers definitions and concepts such as galaxies, star clusters, and nebulas. Challenge yourself to master the key terms and definitions in this fascinating topic of astronomy.
