An isolated spiral galaxy will eventually turn into a lenticular (S0) galaxy.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
- Gas Consumption: Spiral galaxies form stars using gas.
- Star Formation Ceases: As the galaxy uses up its gas, star formation slows down and eventually stops.
- Arms Fade: The visible spiral arms, which are regions of active star formation, weaken and fade away.
- Smooth Disk Remains: What remains is a smooth disk of stars.
According to the reference material, the end result is specifically a lenticular galaxy, also known as an S0 galaxy, and not an elliptical galaxy.
