Galaxy Evolution Quick Check

Question

2 of 32 of 3 Items
Question
Which factor is essential to the initial formation of galaxies, for either of the theories describing galaxy evolution?(1 point)
Responses

Massive gas and dust clouds collapse.
Massive gas and dust clouds collapse.

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.

Gravity acts on existing material, shaping it into a new form.
Gravity acts on existing material, shaping it into a new form.

Answer 1

The essential factor for the initial formation of galaxies, according to both theories describing galaxy evolution (such as the hierarchical merging scenario and the top-down scenario), is:

Massive gas and dust clouds collapse.

This collapse initiates the process of galaxy formation.