Effects of Galactic Cannibalism

Throughout the known universe, destruction on a galactic scale is quite common. Known as "galactic cannibalism", this event in particular is quite powerful and drastically changes the structure of all galaxies involved. It can happen between two galaxies, but no upper limit is known. In theory, if 10 galaxies were to somehow end up in close proximity to one another, they could all find themselves involved in a gargantuan act of galactic cannibalism. The effects of such events are numerous and immense.

Formation of new galaxies

This event is the most obvious of the lot. When two galaxies collide, the stars that make them up mix and form a new super-galaxy. These galaxies are often "irregular", lacking any specific shape or structure. After two galaxies merge, it can take billions of years for gravity to shape the new galaxy into something coherent, like a spiral.

The bigger galaxy always wins

Unlike a galactic collision, galactic cannibalism always involves galaxies of different sizes. The bigger the size difference, the less the larger galaxy is damaged. If one galaxy is 10 thousand times the size of the other, the merger occurs with hardly any change to the larger galaxy (other than an increase in size). If the bigger galaxy is only twice the size of the smaller one, the changes are much more severe. The smaller galaxy disturbs more of the natural order of its larger partner. It is cases like this that often lead to the formation of irregular galaxies.

Galactic cannibalism is a wondrous event to witness. It is grand and beautiful, taking two galaxies and letting gravity do its work. It is the ultimate demonstration of gravitational physics at work.