Baryon cycle

Definition

Baryon cycle refers to the process by which baryonic matter (protons, neutrons) circulates through different phases of the interstellar medium (ISM). This includes transitions between stars, gas clouds, and cosmic dust over cosmic timescales.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Baryon cycle involves the recycling of matter in galaxies through processes like star formation and supernova explosions.
2. Stars form from collapsing gas clouds, contributing to one phase of the baryon cycle.
3. Supernovae return enriched material to the ISM, influencing future star formation.
4. The baryon cycle helps regulate galaxy evolution by controlling the availability of gas for new stars.
5. Interstellar dust is an important component of the baryon cycle as it aids in cooling gas clouds, leading to star formation.

Review Questions

• What role do supernovae play in the baryon cycle?
• How does interstellar dust contribute to the baryon cycle?
• Why is understanding the baryon cycle important for studying galaxy evolution?

Related terms

Interstellar Medium (ISM): The matter that exists in space between star systems within a galaxy, composed of gas and dust.

Star Formation:

The process by which dense regions within molecular clouds in interstellar space collapse to form stars.

Supernova:

A powerful explosion that occurs when a star exhausts its nuclear fuel and collapses under its own gravity, dispersing elements into space.