A collision of two large spiral galaxies is likely to result in the formation of what type of galaxy?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When two large spiral galaxies collide, the gravitational forces between the galaxies cause the gas and dust in the galaxies to be compressed and heated up, which triggers a burst of star formation. This burst of star formation results in the formation of a large number of hot, young stars that consume much of the gas and dust in the galaxies. As a result, the galaxies lose much of their interstellar medium, which is necessary to sustain star formation. The end result of this process is typically an elliptical galaxy, which is characterized by a featureless, smooth, rounded appearance, and an absence of gas and dust.

A Collision of Two Large Spiral Galaxies Is Likely to Result