With which type of galaxy is a small galaxy most likely to merge? Select the two correct answers.(1 point) Responses a nearby galaxy a nearby galaxy a fast-moving galaxy a fast-moving galaxy a much larger galaxy a much larger galaxy an equal-sized galaxy

A small galaxy is most likely to merge with a nearby galaxy and a much larger galaxy.

Which characteristics are considered most typical of an old galaxy in decline?(1 point) Responses low gas content, little star formation low gas content, little star formation very bright, relatively small very bright, relatively small shrinking in size, high dust content shrinking in size, high dust content spiral, abundant planets present

The characteristics considered most typical of an old galaxy in decline are:

- low gas content and little star formation
- shrinking in size and high dust content.

Which factor is essential to the initial formation of galaxies, for either of the theories describing galaxy evolution?(1 point) Responses Small lumps of material merge into larger clumps. Small lumps of material merge into larger clumps. The force of orbiting stars generates collisions. The force of orbiting stars generates collisions. Massive gas and dust clouds collapse. Massive gas and dust clouds collapse. Gravity acts on existing material, shaping it into a new form.

The correct response is: Massive gas and dust clouds collapse. This factor is essential to the initial formation of galaxies in either of the theories describing galaxy evolution.

A small galaxy is most likely to merge with a nearby galaxy or a much larger galaxy.

To determine with which type of galaxy a small galaxy is most likely to merge, we need to consider certain factors such as proximity, velocity, and size. Merging of galaxies occurs primarily due to gravitational interactions.

Given this, the two correct answers would be:

1. A nearby galaxy: When a small galaxy is in close proximity to another galaxy, the gravitational forces between them can cause them to merge over time. The gravitational pull can eventually bring them together, resulting in a merger.

2. A much larger galaxy: The gravitational pull from a much larger galaxy can overpower the gravitational forces within a small galaxy. As a result, the small galaxy can be gravitationally captured by the larger galaxy and eventually merge with it.

Therefore, a small galaxy is most likely to merge with a nearby galaxy and a much larger galaxy.