Active galactic nuclei (AGN) include a variety of objects, but all are powered by:
A)collisions between giant ellipticals.
B)the merger of black holes.
C)energy emerging through a wormhole from some other part of the universe.
D)hot gas accreting around a supermassive black hole.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

AGN are powered by hot gas accreting around a supermassive black hole in the center of the galaxy. This material heats up and emits powerful radiation and jets of particles, leading to the observed phenomena associated with AGN. Choices A, B, and C are not supported by current understanding of AGN.

Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN) Include a Variety of Objects, but All