Galactic morphology is the study of the shapes and structures of galaxies. It categorizes galaxies into different types based on their appearance, such as spiral, elliptical, and irregular galaxies. This classification helps astronomers understand the formation and evolution of galaxies over time.
The classification system was popularized by the Hubble sequence, which organizes galaxies from the well-defined spiral shapes to the more chaotic irregular forms. By examining their morphology, scientists can gain insights into the physical processes that govern galaxy formation, including star formation and interactions with other galaxies.