Consider a large cloud of hydrogen gas, all at a uniform temperature. How do density fluctuations within this cloud affect its tendency to collapse gravitationally?
A)In those regions where the density is larger the gas pressure will also be larger, and the gas will be less likely to collapse.
B)In those regions where the density is larger the Jeans length is smaller, meaning that smaller regions of the gas are likely to collapse.
C)The Jeans length must be calculated for the entire cloud. Density fluctuations within the cloud have no effect.
D)The likelihood of gravitational collapse cannot be calculated from the information given.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Density fluctuations within the cloud affect the Jeans length, which is the minimum size required for gravitational collapse to occur. In regions where the density is larger, the Jeans length is smaller and therefore smaller regions of the gas are likely to collapse.

Consider a Large Cloud of Hydrogen Gas, All at a Uniform