What substances compose the tiny solid particles, known as dust, existing within gas clouds?
Answer
Silicates and carbon compounds
The Interstellar Medium contains not only diffuse gas but also solid components referred to as interstellar dust. These dust grains are microscopic particles composed primarily of refractory materials such as silicates, which are rock-forming minerals, and various carbon compounds. The presence of this dust significantly impacts observations because these particles effectively scatter and absorb starlight passing through the cloud, contributing to the observed dark appearance of dense regions.
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