is not confined to Maffei 2’s nucleus but extends outward, along the galaxy’s bar and spiral arms. The gas in these regions is subs- tantially less concentrated than in the nucleus; this is not surprising, since there is less star formation in these areas. 
    Irregularities in the distribution of carbon monoxide gas suggest that Maffei 2 has been disrupted by another galaxy. This would explain the concentration of molecular gas in the galaxy’s nucleus. Normally, carbon monoxide gas orbits the galaxy; only an outside influence could force it out of its orbit and into the nucleus. Computer simulations suggest that when galaxies pass each other, the same gravitational forces that distort their shape can also cause gas to