Astronomy Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Preparation Guide

Image Description

Question: 1 / 460

What happens to the gravitational energy of a contracting gas cloud?

It decreases

It transforms into thermal energy

When a gas cloud contracts under the influence of gravity, the gravitational potential energy decreases as the particles move closer together. This process converts gravitational energy into thermal energy. As the gas cloud contracts, the particles gain kinetic energy, which translates into increased thermal energy, leading to a rise in temperature within the cloud. This transformation is a key factor in star formation, as the heat generated from gravitational contraction can eventually lead to nuclear fusion once the temperature and pressure in the core become high enough. Thus, the correct answer indicates that the gravitational energy is indeed transformed into thermal energy, highlighting the dynamic relationship between gravitational forces and thermal processes in astrophysical phenomena.

Get further explanation with Examzify DeepDiveBeta

It remains the same

It gets absorbed by the environment

Next Question

Report this question

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy