Which galaxy types constitute the structural 'skeleton' of the Virgo Cluster?
Answer
Elliptical and lenticular galaxies
The core structure, or 'skeleton,' of the Virgo Cluster is formed primarily by the elliptical and lenticular types of galaxies. These galaxies are observed to be more centrally clustered, suggesting they have been gravitationally bound within the main body of the cluster for a longer period, allowing them to settle dynamically. Conversely, the spiral and irregular galaxies are found to be more widely scattered. This distribution suggests these more disk-like and irregularly shaped systems have fallen into the main gravitational potential well more recently and have not yet achieved dynamical equilibrium within the cluster core.
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