In active galaxies, their central engines may be temporarily fed by:
A)a sudden surge of star formation.
B)a series of supernovae around the core.
C)the sudden collapse of the core into a supermassive black hole.
D)a close encounter with a neighbor galaxy.
E)the fusion of helium into carbon in their cores.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A close encounter with a neighbor galaxy can funnel gas and material into the central region of a galaxy, feeding the supermassive black hole and temporarily increasing its activity.

In Active Galaxies, Their Central Engines May Be Temporarily Fed