Local Bubble

Definition

The Local Bubble is a cavity in the interstellar medium filled with hot, ionized gas. It was created by supernova explosions and stellar winds from massive stars.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Local Bubble extends roughly 300 light-years across.
2. It has a significantly lower density than the average interstellar medium.
3. The temperature inside the Local Bubble is about one million Kelvin.
4. Our solar system is located within the Local Bubble.
5. Ultraviolet and X-ray emissions from the hot gas are detectable from Earth.

Review Questions

• What is the approximate size of the Local Bubble?
• How does the density of the Local Bubble compare to that of the general interstellar medium?
• What type of emissions can be detected from the gas within the Local Bubble?

Related terms

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

Supernova Remnant: The structure resulting from an explosion of a star in a supernova, contributing to shaping regions like the Local Bubble.

Stellar Wind: A flow of charged particles ejected from a star's upper atmosphere, influencing surrounding interstellar matter.