An astronomer detects a starburst galaxy with an irregular shape.She might reasonably conclude that it:
A) is the collision of two spiral galaxies.
B) has primarily red stars.
C) has very little interstellar gas.
D) will eventually form a spiral galaxy.

Question

An astronomer detects a starburst galaxy with an irregular shape.She might reasonably conclude that it:
A) is the collision of two spiral galaxies.
B) has primarily red stars.
C) has very little interstellar gas.
D) will eventually form a spiral galaxy.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The irregular shape of the starburst galaxy suggests that it is the result of a collision between two spiral galaxies, which has disrupted their once organized structure. This can lead to regions of rapid star formation, known as "starbursts". Option B is incorrect because the color of the stars is not determined by the galaxy's shape. Option C is also incorrect because a lack of interstellar gas would actually hinder star formation, which is not consistent with the observed characteristics of a starburst galaxy. Option D is incorrect because there is no guarantee that a starburst galaxy will eventually form a spiral galaxy.

An Astronomer Detects a Starburst Galaxy with an Irregular Shape