An astronomer discovers a bright,steady source of high-energy gamma rays at the center of a galaxy.What is the most likely explanation for this source?
A) rapid star formation
B) a gamma-ray burst
C) fast-moving gas clouds orbiting a black hole
D) Type Ia supernova

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Fast-moving gas clouds orbiting a black hole. This scenario is consistent with the presence of a supermassive black hole at the center of the galaxy, which can accelerate particles to high energies and generate gamma rays as these particles interact with gas in the black hole's vicinity. Rapid star formation, gamma-ray bursts, and Type Ia supernovae are not typically associated with steady, high-energy gamma-ray emission from a galaxy's center.

An Astronomer Discovers a Bright,steady Source of High-Energy Gamma Rays