Molecular Cloud:
Astronomers studied the L328 molecular cloud, located around 700 light years away, to map the magnetic fields at multiple scales.
- It is an interstellar cloud of gas and dust in which molecules can form, the most common of which is Hydrogen (H2).
- These are characterized by their low temperatures (below 40 K, colder than liquid nitrogen) and relatively high densities.
- The size of these clouds can be from a few light years up to 600 light years. Their total mass can reach several million solar masses.
- Molecular clouds with dimensions of more than about 15 light years are also called giant molecular clouds.
- The complex interplay between three key forces, namely gravity, magnetic fields, and turbulence, determines how these clouds collapse to form stars.
- The central regions of these clouds are completely hidden from view by dust.
- They are the raw material of stars and planets. These clouds do not last for a very long time.
- After the new stars are born, their solar winds blow away the remaining gas and dust.
- Molecular clouds are so important because they are the raw material of stars and planets.
- It is thought to be the birthplace of stars and planetary systems through processes of contraction, condensation, and accretion.
