Which factors are most likely to affect whether a galaxy will evolve by merging with a second galaxy? Select the two correct answers.(1 point)
Responses
its size compared to that of the other galaxy
its age compared to that of the other galaxy
its distance from the other galaxy
its proportion of gas compared to that of the other galaxy
The correct answers are:
1. Its size compared to that of the other galaxy
3. Its distance from the other galaxy
The two factors that are most likely to affect whether a galaxy will evolve by merging with a second galaxy are:
1. Its size compared to that of the other galaxy.
2. Its proportion of gas compared to that of the other galaxy.
To determine which factors are most likely to affect whether a galaxy will evolve by merging with a second galaxy, we can analyze the given options:
1. Size comparison: When two galaxies come close together, the larger galaxy is more likely to affect the smaller galaxy gravitationally. This can lead to a merger, with the smaller galaxy being absorbed into the larger one. Hence, the size of a galaxy compared to that of another galaxy is a factor that can influence the likelihood of a merger.
2. Age comparison: The age of a galaxy is not a direct determinant for its likelihood of merging with another galaxy. While older galaxies do tend to have gone through more interactions and mergers, merging can occur between galaxies of different ages. Hence, age comparison is not a primary factor in this scenario.
3. Distance: The distance between two galaxies is a crucial factor in determining whether they will merge. If two galaxies are too far apart, the gravitational forces may not be significant enough to overcome the expansion of the universe and bring them close together. Therefore, distance plays a role in the likelihood of a merger.
4. Gas proportion: The proportion of gas in a galaxy can affect the possibility of a merger. Galaxies with a higher proportion of gas are more likely to experience gravitational interactions and mergers. Gas-rich galaxies have more material available to fuel star formation and can create more massive galaxies when they merge. Therefore, the proportion of gas in a galaxy is a relevant factor to consider when predicting mergers.
From the given options, the two correct answers that are most likely to affect whether a galaxy will evolve by merging with a second galaxy are:
1. Its size compared to that of the other galaxy.
3. Its distance from the other galaxy.
The age comparison is not a primary factor, and while the proportion of gas does influence mergers, it is not provided as one of the answer options.