Centaurus A is a radio galaxy that has a visible galaxy at its centre.This central elliptical galaxy of Centaurus A is encircled by a ring of gas and dust,unlike most elliptical galaxies.The dust ring orbits about an axis that is perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the central elliptical galaxy.What does this suggest about this central elliptical galaxy of Centaurus A?
A)The radio jets have caused the dust disk to be driven around the elliptical galaxy.
B)There are at least two black holes at the centre of the elliptical galaxy.
C)Centaurus A is probably the result of a merger of an elliptical galaxy and a spiral galaxy.
D)Dust is produced as the jets interact with the intergalactic medium.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence of a dust ring that orbits about an axis perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the central elliptical galaxy suggests that Centaurus A is probably the result of a merger of an elliptical galaxy and a spiral galaxy. The dust ring is likely the remains of the spiral galaxy that was absorbed during the merger. This is a common characteristic of galaxy mergers, as they can disrupt the orbits of stars and gas clouds, leading to the formation of a new structure.

Centaurus a Is a Radio Galaxy That Has a Visible