Astronomy quiz question: supernovae-triggered star formation

Astronomy 210 Quiz 6, fall semester 2016
Cuesta College, San Luis Obispo, CA

Young stars at shockwave edges is evidence that __________ trigger star formation.
(A) planetary nebulae.
(B) supernova explosions.
(C) gravity waves.
(D) x-ray pulsar beams.

Correct answer (highlight to unhide): (B)

Massive stars will explode as type II supernovae as they die. The shock wave from this explosion as it expands out into space will force clouds of gas and dust already present to smash together and "kick-start" the formation of stars (and perhaps planets).

Section 70158
Exam code: quiz06s1rI
(A) : 2 students
(B) : 30 students
(C) : 1 student
(D) : 0 students

Success level: 92% (including partial credit for multiple-choice)
Discrimination index (Aubrecht & Aubrecht, 1983): 0.25

Section 70160
Exam code: quiz06nHiR
(A) : 3 students
(B) : 17 students
(C) : 2 students
(D) : 2 students

Success level: 73% (including partial credit for multiple-choice)
Discrimination index (Aubrecht & Aubrecht, 1983): 0.29