The glowing filaments of the Veil Nebula are composed of the original star's matter mixed with what other material energized by the shockwave?
Answer
The swept-up interstellar gas
The debris cloud that constitutes the Veil Nebula is not solely composed of the matter ejected by the supernova explosion itself. As the immense shockwave races outward through the interstellar medium (ISM), it physically sweeps up and incorporates the pre-existing, diffuse gas and dust that naturally fills the space between stars. The process involves the shockwave compressing and energizing this ambient interstellar material, causing it to glow intensely alongside the ejected stellar remnants. This constant incorporation of local material influences the nebula's long-term appearance as the structure continues its attenuation and deceleration phase within the Galactic ISM.
Related Questions
What was the estimated minimum mass of the progenitor star that created the Veil Nebula?In which constellation is the sprawling Veil Nebula structure visible to observers?What was the initial age estimate, based on optical observations, for the event that created the Veil Nebula?What approximate initial expansion rate was measured for the supernova shockwave creating the Veil Nebula?Which component of the Veil Nebula, designated NGC 6960, is noted for its 'Witch's Broom' appearance?What catastrophic event is the primary cause of the Veil Nebula structure, described as a supernova remnant?Observations confirmed the presence of which three highly ionized elements in the Veil Nebula's spectral signature?Which specific age estimate, derived from X-ray profile analysis, suggests the Veil Nebula event is slightly younger than optical estimates?What specialized filters are required to bring out the fine detail of the Veil Nebula's filaments against the dark sky?The glowing filaments of the Veil Nebula are composed of the original star's matter mixed with what other material energized by the shockwave?