What accounts for the different types of observed AGNs?
A) galaxy's age
B) galaxy's distance
C) galaxy's mass
D) orientation of the galaxy to our line of sight

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The different types of observed AGNs are mainly due to the orientation of the galaxy to our line of sight. This is because the emission from the AGN can be obscured or enhanced depending on the angle we view the galaxy from. For example, a galaxy viewed edge-on may have a higher chance of obscuring the central AGN, leading to a "hidden" AGN classification, while a face-on view may reveal strong AGN emission. Factors such as galaxy age, distance, and mass may also play a role, but they are not the primary reason for the observed diversity of AGN types.

What Accounts for the Different Types of Observed AGNs