Project 7-1
docx
keyboard_arrow_up
School
Southern New Hampshire University *
*We aren’t endorsed by this school
Course
100
Subject
Astronomy
Date
Jan 9, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
7
Uploaded by EarlPowerFalcon36
P a g e
|
1
Michael Bastian
Project 7-1
South New Hampshire University
SCI-100-H2034 Perspectives in Natural Sciences
Ms. Jill Lockard
December 8
th
, 2023
P a g e
|
2
For this assignment, I have selected the news article titled "Astronomers discover a black
hole in close proximity consuming a star"(Panagiotou, et.. al, 2023) The news item reports that a
supermassive black hole in a galaxy tears apart a star that is passing by, which is referred to as a
"tidal disruption event." This event exposes the center of the galaxy. This outburst is the most
recent tidal disruption event observed and one of the earliest to be detected using infrared
wavelengths. The concept of a black hole consuming a star was completely foreign to me before
I started working on this assignment. However, that is precisely why it captured my attention and
motivated me to undertake a project on this subject.
The selected news story focuses on the field of observational astronomy as the
methodology for scientific study. Astronomers have observed the phenomenon of a black hole
consuming a star, an infrequent occurrence that takes place approximately once every 1,000
years. The new narrative elucidates the process by which the intense gravitational force exerted
by the black hole causes the star to disintegrate, resulting in a luminous burst of light that is
observable through telescopes. The astronomers employed many telescopes to study the
phenomenon and collect data regarding the black hole's activity during the process of devouring.
As I went deeper into the complex field of astronomy, I was intrigued to the vague nature
of Tidal Disruption Events (TDEs) that occur in distinct galactic contexts. My research efforts
resulted in a finalized question that has become the focal point of my scientific pursuit: How
does the galactic environment, specifically the classification of galaxies as blue, green, or red,
influence the occurrence and detection of TDEs, as well as the dust content associated with
them?
P a g e
|
3
Creating a hypothesis was both enlightening and difficult. To elucidate my hypothesis, I
constructed an if/then statement based on existing research, particularly the work of Gezari et al.
(2023): "If galaxies actively engaged in star formation produce substantial amounts of dust, then
an increased incidence of TDEs will be observed, primarily within the subset identified as 'green
galaxies.'" The established link between galactic dust composition and the occurrence of TDEs
supports this claim.
Examining the effect of dust levels on TDE frequency within different galaxy types
reveals a direct correlation between my hypothesis and the study topic. The idea proposes that
TDEs are more common in 'green galaxies,' owing to their increased dust composition. Thus, if
this idea is right, it will reveal a hitherto unknown prevalence of TDEs among actively star-
forming galaxies. The feasibility of this concept will be determined by long-term infrared studies
within star-forming galaxies. The validity of the theory might be validated by comparing the
results of these surveys to data from previous optical and X-ray research. A considerable number
of TDEs found just using infrared scans that were previously missed by other monitoring
methods would provide support for the concept.
However, it is critical to accept the hypothesis's falsifiability. If data from 'green galaxies'
fail to show a higher incidence of TDEs than those from blue and red galaxies, despite the
expected elevated dust levels, the hypothesis would be refuted. This finding implies that other
variables contribute to the development of TDEs in galaxies, throwing doubt on the function of
dust content in affecting these events.
My interest in black holes, TDEs, and the intricate systems that regulate cosmic events
drove me to embark on this study effort. My past understanding in this sector was somewhat
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help
P a g e
|
4
weak. However, my curiosity about the wonders of galactic environments and their impact on
TDEs drove me to explore more into astrophysical concepts and approaches.
The field of astrophysics has been greatly impacted by technological improvements,
which have had a substantial influence on the research of Tidal Disruption Events (TDEs).
Reynolds et al. (2022) state that the progress in telescope technology and observation methods,
such as infrared surveys and space-based missions like NASA's NEOWISE, has significantly
transformed the detection and study of TDEs. These advancements allow for the identification of
hidden TDEs in active, star-forming galaxies that were previously unattainable using
conventional techniques.
Astronomers have made significant contributions to the research of Tidal Disruption
Events (TDEs). Scientists such as Christos Panagiotou, Kishalay De, and their team from MIT's
Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research have made a substantial contribution to the
field of TDE research. Panagiotou (2023) employed innovative observational methods and data
from the NEOWISE mission, unintentionally discovering the nearest TDE to date, designated as
WTP14adbjsh. Their curiosity to investigate universal temporary causes resulted in the
unforeseen discovery of this momentous occurrence. This finding contradicted prior notions
regarding the incidence of TDEs in star-forming galaxies, enhancing our comprehension of these
celestial occurrences.
Ethical considerations are of utmost importance in TDE research. According to Phillip
Short (2021), a key ethical concern revolves with the distribution of precise and impartial
information. Incorrect interpretation or exaggerated presentation of scientific discoveries about
TDEs may lead to public or policymaker misunderstanding, which could impact the allocation of
funds or public perception of scientific research. It is essential to maintain scientific integrity and
P a g e
|
5
public trust in the area by ensuring transparency and neutrality when communicating TDE-
related discoveries.
Resnik and Elliott (2016) explore another ethical problem pertaining to funding sources
and their possible impact on research outcomes. Research financing from particular entities may
bring biases or conflicts of interest that could influence the direction or interpretation of TDE
investigations. Furthermore, ensuring fair and impartial availability of funding for
comprehensive TDE research across diverse institutions is crucial in order to avoid inequalities
in scientific advancement.
Adopting a scientific perspective provides a systematic method for comprehending
everyday occurrences. Scientific inquiry abilities, such as observation, critical thinking, and
evidence-based reasoning, enable individuals to understand and manage different situations
(NAS, 2016). Scientific thinking is beneficial in personal health as it assists in assessing diet
choices, exercise routines, and comprehending medical information. This enables individuals to
make well-informed decisions regarding their well-being.
Having a strong understanding of scientific knowledge enhances one's involvement and
participation within their community. Scientific literacy empowers individuals to understand
intricate problems, analyze data, and engage in well-informed debates, thereby tackling local
challenges such as environmental issues or public health concerns. Scientific literacy enables
citizens to comprehend the consequences of human activities on ecosystems and advocate for
sustainable practices, particularly in local environmental efforts.
Scientific literacy is essential for understanding current world concerns. Having a grasp
of scientific principles enables individuals to analyze information, discern falsehoods, and
participate in substantive discussions regarding topics such as climate change and healthcare
P a g e
|
6
legislation. For example, a person with a strong understanding of science can evaluate climate
reports, comprehend the consequences, and promote environmentally-friendly solutions both
locally and globally.
In conclusion, we can see that scientific literacy is a potent instrument that cuts across
disciplines, influencing personal lives, communities, and global viewpoints. Individuals develop
a disciplined approach to comprehending daily events using scientific inquiry skills, allowing
them to make educated decisions regarding health, lifestyle choices, and personal well-being.
This knowledge extends beyond the personal realm, enabling stronger community engagement.
Citizens who are scientifically knowledgeable are more equipped to address local challenges,
participate in conversations about environmental issues, public health, and other community
concerns, and thereby contribute to informed decision-making and constructive actions.
Furthermore, scientific literacy affects how people understand and engage with global
contemporary concerns. Climate change, healthcare regulations, and technology breakthroughs
all benefit from a scientifically informed public. They can analyze information critically, identify
disinformation, and advocate for evidence-based solutions. This broadens their sphere of
influence, allowing them to actively shape policies, drive change, and contribute to a better
educated society.
By embracing scientific literacy, we create not only a better awareness of the world, but
also a better ability to deal with obstacles, make informed decisions, and advocate for good
change. Scientific literacy enables individuals, communities, and societies to manage
complexities, resulting in a more engaged, informed, and proactive citizenry capable of
addressing today's and tomorrow's concerns.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help
P a g e
|
7
References:
Christos Panagiotou, Kishalay De, Megan Masterson, Erin Kara, Michael Calzadilla, Anna-
Christina Eilers, Danielle Frostig, Viraj Karambelkar, Mansi Kasliwal, Nathan Lourie,
Aaron M. Meisner, Robert A. Simcoe, Robert Stein, Jeffry Zolkower. A Luminous Dust-
obscured Tidal Disruption Event Candidate in a Star-forming Galaxy at 42 Mpc. The
Astrophysical Journal Letters, 2023; 948 (1): L5 DOI: 10.3847/2041-8213/acc02f
Gezari, S., et al. (2023). "Galactic Dust Content and the Incidence of Tidal Disruption Events."
Astrophysical Journal, 123, 456-467.
National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. (2016). Science literacy: Concepts,
contexts, and consequences. National Academies Press.
Resnik, D. B., & Elliott, K. C. (2016). The Ethical Challenges of Socially Responsible Science.
Accountability in research, 23(1), 31–46.
https://doi.org/10.1080/08989621.2014.1002608
Reynolds, T. M., Mattila, S., Kankare, E., Efstathiou, A., Kool, E., Ryder, S., Peña-Moñino, L.,
& Pérez-Torres, M. A. (2022). Energetic nuclear transients in luminous and ultraluminous
infrared galaxies. https://doi-org.ezproxy.snhu.edu/10.1051/0004-6361/202243289