What process leads to the dispersal of an open cluster over time?
Answer
Galactic tidal forces gradually pulling loosely bound stars away
The primary mechanism leading to the dissolution of an open cluster involves galactic tidal forces. These forces represent the differential gravitational pull exerted by the massive components of the host galaxy, such as the galactic bulge and disk, acting unevenly across the extent of the loosely held cluster. Over astronomical timescales, this steady, differential tug gradually strips stars away from the cluster's core structure. Because the cluster's internal gravity is weak, it cannot resist this external influence, causing the overall grouping to break apart, often within a few hundred million years.
Related Questions
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