The Milky Way Galaxy and the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) will probably collide in about 4 billion years. What is the probable result?
A) Both galaxies will disappear and become part of the intergalactic medium.
B) Most of the stars will dissipate into the intergalactic medium, but a smaller spiral galaxy will remain.
C) A giant elliptical will form.
D) An irregular galaxy will form.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When the Milky Way Galaxy and the Andromeda Galaxy collide, the gravitational forces and interactions are expected to merge them into a single, larger galaxy. Due to the vast distances between stars, direct collisions between stars are unlikely, but the overall structure of the galaxies will be significantly altered. The most likely outcome is the formation of a giant elliptical galaxy, as the original spiral structures of both galaxies are disrupted and blended into a new, more spherical shape.

The Milky Way Galaxy and the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) Will