The primary components include the central bulge, the disk, and the halo. M81, M100 S or SBc Loose, fragmented arms with a small central bulge.
Spiral Galaxies Definition: The Role of Dust and Gas in Disk Properties
Surrounding the bulge is the galactic disk, a flattened structure where the spiral arms reside. A spiral galaxy is a classification of galaxy characterized by a flat, rotating disk containing stars, gas, and dust, along with a central concentration of stars known as the bulge.
Finally, the halo is a roughly spherical region of sparse stars and dark matter that extends far beyond the visible disk, providing the gravitational scaffolding necessary to hold the galaxy together. A common system, known as the Hubble tuning fork diagram, divides them into two main types: normal spirals (S) and barred spirals (SB).
Spiral Galaxies Definition: The Role of Dust and Gas in Disk Properties
Type Description Example S or SBa Tight, well-defined arms originating from a large bulge. This means that stars and gas clouds move in and out of these arms, similar to how cars slow down and speed up in a traffic jam.
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