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ultraluminous infrared galaxy
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ultraluminous infrared galaxy

physics
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Quick Summary

An ultraluminous infrared galaxy is a galaxy that emits an extremely large amount of electromagnetic radiation, particularly in the infrared spectrum. These galaxies are incredibly luminous, radiating far more energy than typical galaxies.1

The intense infrared radiation often originates from dust within the galaxy that has been heated by nearby stars or by the active galactic nucleus (AGN) at its center. AGNs are powered by supermassive black holes that accrete matter, generating vast amounts of energy. This energy heats surrounding material, leading to significant infrared emissions.234

The study of these galaxies is crucial for understanding galaxy evolution, star formation, and the processes occurring around supermassive black holes.54

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
6 Britannica Sources
  1. infrared source
  2. active galactic nucleus
  3. star - Black holes
  4. ultraluminous
  5. galaxy - Evolution of galaxies and quasars
  6. supermassive black hole

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