Our Galaxy and star clusters
Answers are for parents and teachers.
1
If the diameter is 15 kpc, how many light-years? (15 · 3260)
48900
2
The Sun is 4600 million years old and a galactic year is 230 million. How many turns? (4600 : 230)
20
3
An open cluster is 200 million years old and the Sun 4600 million. What is the difference in million years? (4600 – 200)
4400
4
Why is it said to be important for life that the Sun is far from the Galactic centre?
Near the centre radiation and star density are high with many supernovae; farther out conditions are more stable.
5
Why has the Milky Way got a name in so many cultures? (A reflection question)
Because it is a clearly visible band at night, and people linked it to navigation and stories.