Chapter 34, Problem 3TC

Rank the following in order of increasing energy output: spiral galaxy, supernova, active galactic nucleus.

To determine

The rank in increasing order of the energy output of the spiral galaxy, supernova, active galactic nucleus.

Answer to Problem 3TC

The rank in increasing order of the energy output is mentioned as: spiral galaxy, supernova, active galactic nucleus.

Explanation of Solution

The energy output of galaxies is proportional to the frequency of their energetic explosions and the formation of stars in a year. These galaxies brims with energy and are very violent. The starburst galaxy is such a type of galaxy, which forms stars at a very high rate.

The galactic center of this type of galaxy is known as the active galactic nucleus (AGN) that forms about 100 stars each year, while our Milky Way Galaxy, similar to a spiral galaxy, form about 1 star in a year. So, due to fewer explosions and fewer stars formation, the energy output of spiral galaxies is less than AGN.

The supernova is an explosion of a massive supergiant star. It may shine with a brightness of 10 billion suns. The total output energy may be of the order of 44 joules of energy and is greater than spiral galaxy energy output, but less than AGN.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the rank in increasing order of the energy output is mentioned as: spiral galaxy, supernova, active galactic nucleus.