What fundamental interaction keeps the Milky Way from flying apart due to centrifugal force?
Answer
Gravity
The cohesion and ordered structure of the Milky Way, despite its immense size and rapid spin, is maintained by gravity. Gravity is defined as the fundamental force exerted by mass, continuously pulling all galactic components—stars, gas, and dust—toward a common center. This force counteracts the outward tendency caused by rotational inertia, ensuring the galaxy remains bound. A star itself is a self-gravitating ball of gas; if the internal pressure from fusion ceased, gravity would immediately cause it to collapse. In the same manner, the galaxy functions as a self-gravitating system that constantly seeks equilibrium against the outward motion inherent in its rotation.
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