MOLECULAR CLOUD Meaning and
Definition
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A molecular cloud is a vast, dense region of interstellar gas and dust found in galaxies, particularly in places with active star formation. It is composed predominantly of molecular hydrogen (H2), along with small amounts of other molecules such as carbon monoxide (CO), ammonia (NH3), and water (H2O). These clouds are the birthplaces of new stars and contain the raw materials necessary for their formation.
Molecular clouds are characterized by low temperatures, typically around 10 to 100 Kelvin (-263 to -173 degrees Celsius), and high densities, with an average particle density of about 100 to 1000 particles per cubic centimeter. Their immense size can range from several light-years to tens or hundreds of light-years across.
Due to their high densities, molecular clouds shield the interior from the harsh radiation emitted by nearby stars, making them ideal environments for gas and dust to coalesce under the influence of gravity. As the cloud collapses, it fragments into smaller clumps, known as protostellar cores, which further collapse to form individual stars.
The formation of stars within molecular clouds is a fundamental process in the lifecycle of galaxies, as it drives much of the evolution of the interstellar medium. Understanding the properties and dynamics of these clouds is crucial in unraveling the mysteries of stellar birth, galaxy formation, and the origins of life.
Common Misspellings for MOLECULAR CLOUD
- nolecular cloud
- kolecular cloud
- jolecular cloud
- milecular cloud
- mklecular cloud
- mllecular cloud
- mplecular cloud
- m0lecular cloud
- m9lecular cloud
- mokecular cloud
- mopecular cloud
- mooecular cloud
- molwcular cloud
- molscular cloud
- moldcular cloud
- molrcular cloud
- mol4cular cloud
- mol3cular cloud
- molexular cloud
- molevular cloud
Etymology of MOLECULAR CLOUD
The term "molecular cloud" is derived from the combination of two separate words: "molecular" and "cloud".
1. Molecular: The word "molecular" relates to molecules, which are the smallest unit of a compound or substance that still retains its chemical properties. It comes from the Latin word "molecula", meaning a small mass or little mass, derived from "moles", which means mass or barrier.
2. Cloud: The word "cloud" refers to a visible mass of water vapor suspended in the air. The term comes from the Old English word "clud", which means mass of rock or hill.
When used together, the term "molecular cloud" describes a cloud-like structure in interstellar space that contains mostly molecular gases such as hydrogen molecules (H2), helium (He), and other molecules. These clouds are vital in the formation of stars and planetary systems within galaxies.
