Which galaxy type is characterized by a bulge in the center and spiral arms that extend outward?

Prepare for the GACE Middle Grades Science Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Ace your exam!

The choice indicating that the galaxy type characterized by a bulge in the center and spiral arms extending outward is a spiral galaxy is accurate. Spiral galaxies are defined by their distinct structure, which includes a central bulge formed by older stars, surrounded by spiraling arms made up of younger stars, gas, and dust. This structure is often the result of the rotation of the galaxy, which causes the stars and gas to be drawn into spiral patterns.

In addition to their characteristic spiral arms, these galaxies can sometimes exhibit features such as star formation occurring in the arms, contributing to their bright and striking appearance. The presence of both a bulge and distinct spiral arms distinguishes spiral galaxies from elliptical galaxies, which lack this structural feature, and also from galaxy clusters, which refer to groups of galaxies rather than a specific type of galaxy. Pulsar galaxies, while referring to systems associated with pulsars, do not relate to the morphology of galaxies as defined in the context of this question. Thus, recognizing the features of spiral galaxies helps clarify their unique classification in the realm of galactic types.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy