How do we learn about the conditions at the center of our own galaxy, the Milky Way?
A) High-resolution photographs obtained by the Hubble Space Telescope have revealed the galactic center using visible light.
B) While we cannot see the galactic center with visible or ultraviolet light, radio and X-rays from the center can be detected and used to determine the conditions there.
C) The gas and dust in the Milky Way prevent any type of direct observation of the galactic center, but theoretical models allow us to predict what is happening there.
D) We must look at the centers of other (external) galaxies and assume that they are similar to the Milky Way.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

While visible and ultraviolet light cannot penetrate the gas and dust in the Milky Way to reveal the galactic center, radio and X-rays can be detected and used to determine the conditions there. Therefore, option B is the best choice. High-resolution photographs obtained by the Hubble Space Telescope cannot reveal the galactic center using visible light, and theoretical models allow us to predict what is happening there but do not provide direct observation. Looking at the centers of other galaxies and assuming that they are similar to the Milky Way is not a reliable method for learning about conditions at the Milky Way's center.

How Do We Learn About the Conditions at the Center