Chapter 14: Problem 9

What is the difference between a cluster and a supercluster? Are both clusters and superclusters held together by their gravity?

Short Answer

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Answer: The key differences between clusters and superclusters are their size and constituents. A cluster is a group of galaxies held together by gravitational forces, while a supercluster is a vast assembly of galaxy clusters and groups. Both clusters and superclusters are indeed held together by their mutual gravitational forces, with gravity acting on different scales for each structure.

Step by step solution

Define Cluster

A cluster is a group of galaxies that are bound together by their mutual gravitational attraction. Clusters can contain from a few dozen to thousands of galaxies, along with gas and dark matter, which occupy an area of space of up to several million light-years in diameter.

Define Supercluster

A supercluster, on the other hand, is a massive assembly of galaxy clusters and groups, which can span hundreds of millions of light-years across. They are interconnected by filaments and sheets of galaxies, forming a cosmic web-like structure throughout the universe.

Difference between Cluster and Supercluster

The main difference between a cluster and a supercluster lies in their size and the constituents they encompass. While a cluster is a group of galaxies held together by gravitational forces, a supercluster is a vast assembly of galaxy clusters and groups.

Role of Gravity

Both clusters and superclusters are bound together by their mutual gravitational forces. In a cluster, the gravitational forces hold the galaxies together, while in a supercluster, the gravity acts on a larger scale, holding the galaxy clusters and groups together within its web-like structure.

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What is the difference between a cluster and a supercluster? Are both clusters and superclusters held together by their gravity?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Define Cluster

Define Supercluster

Difference between Cluster and Supercluster

Role of Gravity

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