What different types of galaxies are there? What are their similarities and differences?
There are indeed different types of galaxies. The main types are spiral galaxies (like our own MilkyWay), elliptical galaxies and irregular galaxies. An irregular galaxy has an undefined shape and has lots of young stars, dust and gas. A spiral galaxy is shaped like a disk, usually with a bulge in the center and with arms that spiral outwards as the galaxy rotates. Spiral galaxies tend to contain more middle-aged stars along with clouds of gas and dust. Elliptical galaxies contain older stars and very little gas and dust. They can be different shapes ranging from round, to flattened, elongated spheres. J. Allie Cliffe for Ask a High-Energy Astronomer QUESTION: First, why do stars clump together into arms in spiral galaxies and are there commonly a specific number of prominent arms in a typical spiral galaxy? Is there a correlation between star masses, rotational speeds, galactic size, etcetera and the spiral arms? Second, and this will settle an argument with a coworker :). What is the
Related Questions
- What physiological differences were observed in the treatment outcome in individuals using different types of batteries for the Energy Cleaner lead vs. nickel, etc.?
- What are different types of debt, ranked by seniority, and what are their key differences?
- What different types of galaxies are there? What are their similarities and differences?
