Difference between revisions of "Quasar"
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| − | '''Quasar''' | + | A '''Quasar''' (abbreviation for of "quasi-stellar radio source") is an unusually energetic object representing the active nucleus of ancient galaxies. Quasars can emit up to 1,000 times as much energy as a normal galaxy, but from a volume about the size of our [[solar system]]. This energy is thought to be the result of superheated material forming an [[accretion disk]] around a supermassive [[black hole]]. |
[[Category:Astronomy]] | [[Category:Astronomy]] | ||
Revision as of 22:48, July 3, 2008
A Quasar (abbreviation for of "quasi-stellar radio source") is an unusually energetic object representing the active nucleus of ancient galaxies. Quasars can emit up to 1,000 times as much energy as a normal galaxy, but from a volume about the size of our solar system. This energy is thought to be the result of superheated material forming an accretion disk around a supermassive black hole.