A Universe of Galaxies
[ 47 minutes: low-resolution 5.5 MB,
high resolution 22.2 MB ]
Learning Objectives
- Understand the distribution of galaxy properties along the Hubble Tuning Fork.
- For ellipticals: a smooth structure, no disk, axial ratio determines sub-classification.
- For spirals: importance of bulge, strength and tightness of spiral arms within disk all
determine sub-classification.
- For barred spirals: spiral properties, plus a central bar.
- For lenticulars: large bulge, a disk-like structure without spiral arms, for an
intermediate classification between elliptical and spiral.
- For irregular and peculiar galaxies: non-symmetric distributions of light (train-wreck),
possibly caused by interaction with another galaxy.
- Visualize the basic form of our Milky Way galaxy, and of all spiral galaxies.
- A central bulge, made up of old, red stars.
- A disk-like structure full of young, blue stars, gas, and dust, characterized by spiral arms.
- A diffuse halo of old, red stars, dense globular clusters, and mysterious dark (non-luminous)
matter.
- Visualize the basic form of elliptical galaxies.
- A large smooth structure, similar to the central bulge of a spiral galaxy.
- The absence of significant gas reservoirs, implying an old population of stars and little
potential for future star formation.
- High mass, red colours, often found within large clusters of galaxies.
- Might form from the merging of two spiral galaxies.
Copyright © 2006 Nicole P. Vogt. All rights reserved.