Chapter 23: Problem 14

What kinds of objects (other than H I clouds) do astronomers observe to map out the Galaxy's spiral structure? What is special about these objects? Which of these can be observed at great distances?

Short Answer

Expert verified

Objects observed by astronomers to map the Galaxy's spiral structure include O and B type stars, supernovae remnants, and star-forming regions like H II regions. These objects are unique as they provide insights into the Galaxy's structure and past events. O and B type stars and supernovae remnants, due to their high luminosity, can be observed from great distances.

Step by step solution

Identify Other Observable Objects

Apart from H I clouds, astronomers observe a variety of objects to map out the Galaxy's spiral structure. They include O and B type stars, supernovae remnants, and star-forming regions (such as H II regions).

Elucidate the Unique Features of these Objects

O and B type stars are short-lived stars that remain in the vicinity of their birthplaces in the Galaxy's spiral arms. They appear as highly luminous blue-white stars, helping trace the spiral structure. Supernovae remnants offer insightful information about the past events in the Galaxy, hence contributing to the mapping. Star-forming regions, like H II regions, are areas of ionized atomic hydrogen and are usually prevalent in the spiral arms of the Galaxy where star births are more frequent.

Identification of Objects Observable at Great Distances

Among these objects, O and B type stars and supernovae remnants, due to their high luminosity and distinctive spectral characteristics, can be observed at great distances. They serve as great distance indicators, enabling astronomers to map large portions of the Galaxy's spiral structure.

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What kinds of objects (other than H I clouds) do astronomers observe to map out the Galaxy's spiral structure? What is special about these objects? Which of these can be observed at great distances?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Identify Other Observable Objects

Elucidate the Unique Features of these Objects

Identification of Objects Observable at Great Distances

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