Why can’t the number of stars in the Milky Way determined to a greater degree of precision? Even though estimates don’t span across orders of magnitude, 200M to 400M still *seems* to be quite a wid…
First of all, its estimated at around 400 billion, not 400 million. Second, due to the shape of the galaxy, we cannot see the stars that are hidden behind the center of the galaxy. Thus, we have to guess how many stars are behind the center based on what we can see on our side of the galaxy.
The Short Answer
First of all, its estimated at around 400 billion, not 400 million. Second, due to the shape of the galaxy, we cannot see the stars that are hidden behind the center of the galaxy. Thus, we have to guess how many stars are behind the center based on what we can see on our side of the galaxy. Third, there are so many stars behind other stars even on our side of the galaxy that we have to guess the number by measuring gravitation effects, estimating total mass to create those effects, then divide by average star size.
Analysis
Key Concepts: Galaxy, stars, behind
This explanation focuses on galaxy, stars, behind and spans 96 words across 4 sentences. At 41% above the average Space & Astronomy explanation (68 words), this is one of the more thorough answers in this category, reflecting the complexity of the underlying question.
What This Answer Covers
The explanation opens with: “First of all, its estimated at around 400 billion, not 400 million.” It then elaboratesultimately building toward a complete picture across 4 connected points.
How This Compares in Space & Astronomy
Ranked #122 of 500 Space & Astronomy questions by answer depth (top 25%). This places it in the comprehensive tier — the top quarter of most thoroughly answered questions. Questions at this depth typically involve multi-faceted topics requiring nuanced explanation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simple explanation for why the number of stars in the milky way determined to a greater degree of precision? even though estimates don't span across orders of magnitude, 200m to 400m still *seems* to be quite a wide range.?
First of all, its estimated at around 400 billion, not 400 million. Second, due to the shape of the galaxy, we cannot see the stars that are hidden behind the center of the galaxy. Thus, we have to guess how many stars are behind the center based on…
How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Space & Astronomy questions?
This is one of the most thorough answer at 96 words, ranked #122 of 500 Space & Astronomy questions by depth. The key concepts covered are galaxy, stars, behind.
What approach does this answer take to explain the number of stars in the milky way determined to a greater?
The explanation uses direct explanation across 96 words. It is categorized under Space & Astronomy and addresses the question through 1 analytical lens.