An irregular galaxy is composed of the same fundamental elements as other types of galaxies, such as spiral or elliptical galaxies.
Composition of Irregular Galaxies
Irregular galaxies aren't irregular because of what they contain, but because of their shape. They are comprised of the following:
- Gas: Primarily hydrogen and helium. This gas serves as the raw material for star formation.
- Dust: Microscopic particles of heavier elements. Dust absorbs light and can obscure our view of objects within the galaxy.
- Stars: These range from young, massive, hot stars to older, smaller, cooler stars.
- Black Holes: Supermassive black holes can reside at the centers of galaxies, and smaller stellar-mass black holes are also present.
- Other Solar System Objects: These galaxies also contain "all the other objects you may find in a solar system such as planets, moons, asteroids, and comets."
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Gas | Primarily hydrogen and helium, fuel for star formation. |
| Dust | Heavier element particles, absorbs light. |
| Stars | Varying ages, sizes, and temperatures. |
| Black Holes | Supermassive and stellar-mass black holes. |
| Solar System Objects | Planets, moons, asteroids, and comets. |
In summary, irregular galaxies contain the same types of objects as other galaxies. The distinguishing factor is their lack of a defined shape.
