Which descriptive analogy is used for the Local Arm compared to the major spiral arms?
Answer
Smaller residential streets connecting major expressways
To illustrate the relative scale and connectivity, the relationship between the major arms (like Perseus and Sagittarius) and the Local Arm is compared using an urban analogy. The massive, well-defined arms are likened to major expressways, representing the main structures of the galaxy. Conversely, the relatively minor Local Arm (Orion Spur) is described as being akin to smaller residential streets that connect these primary thoroughfares. This highlights that the Local Arm is a subsidiary feature situated between the giant arms, not one of the primary structures itself.
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