The collapse of a gas cloud can be triggered by a number of mechanisms. Which one is currently believed to be the likely cause of the collapse that resulted in the formation of the solar system?
A) the shock wave produced by a supernova
B) density waves in our spiral galaxy
C) the gravitational pull of a passing star
D) a collision with another gas cloud

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The collapse of the gas cloud that led to the formation of the solar system is widely believed to have been triggered by the shock wave from a supernova. This shock wave would have compressed the gas cloud, initiating its collapse under gravity, eventually leading to the formation of the Sun and the surrounding planets. Evidence supporting this theory includes the presence of certain short-lived radioactive isotopes in meteorites, which are thought to have been produced by a supernova.

The Collapse of a Gas Cloud Can Be Triggered by a Number