Where is most of the baryonic matter (ordinary matter) of the universe found?(1 point)
Responses
in interstellar gases and stars
in planets and natural satellites
in comets and asteroids
in dark matter and dark energy
in interstellar gases and stars
The correct answer is: in interstellar gases and stars.
The correct answer is "in interstellar gases and stars".
To arrive at this answer, we need to understand the concept of baryonic matter. Baryonic matter refers to ordinary matter composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons.
One way to determine where most of the baryonic matter in the universe is found is by considering the different components of the universe. Let's examine the options one by one:
1. In interstellar gases and stars: Interstellar gases, such as hydrogen and helium, along with stars, make up a significant portion of baryonic matter in the universe. Stars are massive balls of gas that emit light and heat through nuclear fusion. The fusion process occurs due to the enormous pressure and temperature at the core of a star.
2. In planets and natural satellites: While planets and natural satellites, such as moons, do contain baryonic matter, they make up a relatively small fraction compared to interstellar gases and stars. Planets and moons are formed from the gravitational accumulation of dust and gas, but they are much smaller compared to the vast amounts of gases and stars spread throughout the universe.
3. In comets and asteroids: Comets and asteroids, which are rocky objects found in our solar system, do contain baryonic matter. However, they are also small in size compared to the vast quantities of interstellar gases and stars, which are spread throughout not only our solar system but the entire universe.
4. In dark matter and dark energy: Dark matter and dark energy are different from baryonic matter as they are currently poorly understood and have different properties. While they have an impact on the structure and evolution of the universe, they are not considered to be part of baryonic matter.
Considering the explanations above, it becomes clear that interstellar gases and stars contain the majority of the baryonic matter in the universe, making option 1 the correct answer.