Question

What is the portion of a spiral galaxy that looks like a disk and contains an interstellar medium with cool gas and dust? What can be found in the disk?

1) Stars of many ages
2) Stars of the same age
3) Stars of different sizes
4) Stars of the same size

Answer 1

The galactic disk of a spiral galaxy contains a mix of stars of various ages and sizes, along with interstellar material of cool gas and dust. Stars form within this disk, particularly in the spiral arms, adding to the galaxy's complexity.

Step-by-step explanation:

The portion of a spiral galaxy that resembles a disk and contains an interstellar medium with cool gas and dust is known as the galactic disk. This disk is home to an array of different celestial objects and phenomena, some of which include:

• Stars of various ages, from the very youngest to the oldest stars, known as Population I and Population II stars respectively.
• Stars of different sizes, ranging from dwarf stars to massive supergiants.
• Interstellar material, including dust and gas from which new stars are formed.
• The formation of new stars, particularly in the spiral arms of the galaxy.

These features contribute to the dynamism and diversity found throughout the spiral galaxy's disk.