Hi!
____
11. What molecules can be found in the interstellar medium? (1 point)
a) water, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen
b) oxygen, nitrogen, and ammonia
c) nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and oxygen
d) hydrogen, helium, and methane
My Answer: B
Could someone please check my answer?
Thanks!
- Da Fash
To determine which molecules can be found in the interstellar medium, we need to consider the composition of the space between stars. The correct answer is d) hydrogen, helium, and methane.
The interstellar medium is predominantly composed of hydrogen gas (H2) and helium gas (He). These two elements account for the majority of the mass in the universe. Additionally, small amounts of other molecules, such as methane (CH4), have been detected in the interstellar medium.
Therefore, the correct answer is d) hydrogen, helium, and methane.
To determine the correct answer, we need to consider the composition of the interstellar medium (ISM) and the molecules commonly found in it.
The interstellar medium is the vast expanse of space between stars and is composed of various gases, dust, and plasma. It consists mainly of hydrogen gas, with smaller amounts of helium and trace amounts of heavier elements.
Based on this information, let's analyze the options:
a) Water, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen: Water and carbon dioxide are not typically found in the interstellar medium, so this option is unlikely to be correct.
b) Oxygen, nitrogen, and ammonia: Oxygen and nitrogen are more commonly found in planetary atmospheres rather than in the interstellar medium. While ammonia has been detected in some interstellar regions, it is not as prevalent as other molecules. Therefore, this option is also less likely to be correct.
c) Nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and oxygen: Similar to option b, nitrogen and oxygen are not commonly found in large quantities in the ISM. Carbon dioxide, like water, is also rarely present in interstellar space. Thus, this option is unlikely to be correct.
d) Hydrogen, helium, and methane: Hydrogen and helium are the primary constituents of the interstellar medium, and they make up the vast majority of its composition. Methane, although less abundant than hydrogen and helium, has been detected in some interstellar environments. This makes option d the most plausible choice.
Therefore, based on the information provided, it is more likely that the correct answer is d) hydrogen, helium, and methane.
Remember, this explanation helps you understand the reasoning behind the correct answer.