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Chapter 27: Problem 23

Describe the large-scale structure of the universe as revealed by the distribution of clusters and superclusters of galaxies.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The large-scale structure of the Universe is organized into a 'cosmic web' comprised of galaxy clusters - which are groups of galaxies bound together by gravity - and superclusters, which are assemblies of several galaxy clusters. These clusters and superclusters are interconnected by a network of filaments, creating the large scale structure of the universe.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding the Universe's Structure

The large-scale structure of the universe is a vast and complex network composed mostly of voids filled sparsely by galaxies. These galaxies are not scattered randomly but are rather organized into certain patterns or structures known as clusters and superclusters.
02

Explanation of Clusters

Galaxy clusters are the largest known structures in the universe that are held together by gravity. They are groups of galaxies containing anywhere from hundreds to thousands of galaxies bound together by gravity. The Milky Way, for instance, is part of the Local Group, a cluster of about 30 galaxies.
03

Superclusters and the Large Scale Structure

Superclusters are larger structures representing a group of galaxy clusters. Superclusters are connected by filaments of galaxies forming part of the large-scale structure of the universe. The Milky Way is located in the Virgo Supercluster.
04

The Larger Picture - Cosmic Web

On the largest scales, the universe appears to resemble a 'cosmic web'. There are nodes of dense galaxy clusters and superclusters separated by seemingly empty voids, interconnected by filaments. This cosmic web describes the distribution of matter in the universe.

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