Why is the term "planetary nebula" considered a historical misnomer?
Answer
Early telescopic views made them resemble fuzzy, round disks, similar to planets
The designation is inaccurate because these stellar remnants have no actual connection to planets. The name originated because early astronomers, viewing them through low-resolution telescopes, observed objects that appeared fuzzy and round, reminiscent of planetary appearances.
#Videos
How Does A Red Giant Become A Planetary Nebula? - YouTube
How Do Red Giants Create Planetary Nebulae? - Physics Frontier
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