Which characteristics are considered most typical of an old galaxy in decline?(1 point)
shrinking in size, high dust content
shrinking in size, high dust content
low gas content, little star formation
low gas content, little star formation
spiral, abundant planets present
spiral, abundant planets present
very bright, relatively small
The correct answer is:
low gas content, little star formation
The characteristics that are considered most typical of an old galaxy in decline are:
- low gas content: as galaxies age, they consume most of their gas reservoirs for star formation, leading to a decrease in gas content.
- little star formation: as a result of low gas content, old galaxies tend to have a diminished rate of star formation.
Therefore, the correct answer is: low gas content, little star formation.
The characteristic that is considered most typical of an old galaxy in decline is "low gas content, little star formation".
To determine this, scientists study the composition, structure, and behavior of galaxies over time. Observations and data analysis have shown that older galaxies tend to have less gas content compared to younger galaxies. The gas in galaxies is crucial for the formation of new stars, so when the gas content is depleted or low, there is less star formation happening.
Furthermore, as galaxies evolve, their star formation rates decrease. Older galaxies have fewer young, hot stars being formed compared to younger galaxies. This is a consequence of the declining gas content, as less gas means fewer opportunities for new star formation.
Therefore, among the given options, the characteristic of "low gas content, little star formation" is considered most typical of an old galaxy in decline.