A galaxy that is basically one large, smooth shape is which type?

Study for the Earth Science Standards of Learning Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, with hints and explanations for each question. Prepare for your exam efficiently!

Multiple Choice

A galaxy that is basically one large, smooth shape is which type?

Explanation:
Galaxy shape tells us how stars are arranged and how much gas and dust the galaxy has. A galaxy that appears basically as one large, smooth shape with no obvious arms or disk structure is an elliptical galaxy. The smooth appearance comes from a fairly uniform distribution of stars and little interstellar material, so there aren’t prominent regions forming new stars to create bright, winding arms. Spiral galaxies show distinct arms and a disk; lenticulars look like a disk with a central bulge but lack clear spiral arms; irregular galaxies lack a regular, smooth form and appear chaotic. So, a smooth, featureless galaxy is best described as elliptical.

Galaxy shape tells us how stars are arranged and how much gas and dust the galaxy has. A galaxy that appears basically as one large, smooth shape with no obvious arms or disk structure is an elliptical galaxy. The smooth appearance comes from a fairly uniform distribution of stars and little interstellar material, so there aren’t prominent regions forming new stars to create bright, winding arms. Spiral galaxies show distinct arms and a disk; lenticulars look like a disk with a central bulge but lack clear spiral arms; irregular galaxies lack a regular, smooth form and appear chaotic. So, a smooth, featureless galaxy is best described as elliptical.

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