Which characteristic is not generally true of a starburst galaxy?

A starburst galaxy is defined by its extremely high rates of star formation, significantly higher than those found in typical galaxies. This prolific creation of new stars is often facilitated by the presence of large amounts of gas, which serves as the raw material for star formation. The distinct characteristic of high star formation rates is closely associated with the dynamics and conditions within the galaxy, reflected in the complex structures that result from gas and dust interactions.

While supermassive black holes are commonly found at the centers of most galaxies, including starburst galaxies, their presence does not specifically contribute to the defining characteristics of a starburst galaxy. Instead, starburst activity is more directly linked to the galaxy's gas content and the processes that allow for rapid star formation. The role of supermassive black holes in starburst galaxies may influence the evolution of the galaxy over longer time scales, but it is not a fundamental characteristic that sets them apart as a class. Thus, their presence and influence are not generally considered defining aspects of starburst galaxies.