The Ring Nebula is a planetary nebula that currently has a radius of 0.4 pc and an expansion velocity of 250 km/s.Approximately how long ago did its parent star die and eject its outer layers?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Ring Nebula is expanding at a velocity of 250 km/s and has a radius of 0.4 pc. The distance traveled by the nebula is equal to its current radius, which is 0.4 pc. The time taken to travel this distance can be calculated using the formula:Time = Distance / VelocityTime = 0.4 pc / (250 km/s * (3.26 ly/pc) * (3.15 * 10^7 s/yr))Time = 1,600 yearsTherefore, the parent star died and ejected its outer layers approximately 1,600 years ago.

The Ring Nebula Is a Planetary Nebula That Currently Has