An extremely massive O-type star is found directly in between two spiral arms of
ID: 1645600 • Letter: A
Question
An extremely massive O-type star is found directly in between two spiral arms of a galaxy. At the velocity it is moving it would take 10 million years for the star to move the distance from the spiral arm to its current position. If this massive O-star uses up its fuel in 5 million years, explain how it managed to get to this position in the galaxy.
a. A molecular cloud collided with the spiral density wave compressing the leading edge of the molecular cloud, setting off star formation. As the cloud continues on through the arm, high mass stars that formed from the compression, drive gas and dust deeper into the cloud via stellar winds and radiation. Some explode as supernovae and send further shock waves into the cloud. This compresses parts of the remaining cloud and new stars form. This self-sustained star formation continues for 2 or 3 generations until the O-star forms in between the spiral arms.Explanation / Answer
a. A molecular cloud collided with the spiral density wave compressing the leading edge of the molecular cloud, setting off star formation. As the cloud continues on through the arm, high mass stars that formed from the compression, drive gas and dust deeper into the cloud via stellar winds and radiation. Some explode as supernovae and send further shock waves into the cloud. This compresses parts of the remaining cloud and new stars form. This self-sustained star formation continues for 2 or 3 generations until the O-star forms in between the spiral arms.
Related Questions
drjack9650@gmail.com
Navigate
Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.