Question 2

If our galaxy were to merge with the 2 Magellanic clouds, for how long will the starburst last?

Response:

This response is from Dr. Thomas Troland from the University of Kentucky:

"...I am not sure there will be a starburst associated with such a collision.  The Magellanic clouds are very low mass galaxies.  But if there is a minor starburst, then it might last a few 100 million years."