Question

Stars within the halo move in random orbits that extend above and below the disk of the galaxy, while stars in the disk move in orderly, elliptical orbits within the galactic plane. as seen from the outside of the milky way, which of the images below correctly illustrates the orbital motions and distribution of stars within the halo?

Answer 1

Answer: Spherical Distribution Feedback: Correct The stars in the halo component have highly-inclined random orbits that orbit the center of our Galaxy. The stars within the halo would therefore make up a spherical distribution of stars surrounding the center of the Galaxy. In comparison, the disk stars move in elliptical orbits, which are nearly circular and are confined to the disk of the Galaxy. Disk stars therefore have very small inclinations and do not move above or below the plane of the Galactic disk.