Explaining the Virial Theorem in Astrophysics

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the derivation of the values 3/5 and 3/2 in the context of the Virial theorem in astrophysics. A user seeks clarification on these specific values as presented in Wikipedia. Another participant suggests consulting the book "Galaxy Formation" by Malcom S. Longair, which contains a detailed derivation. Additionally, they mention that the textbook by Caroll & Ostlie also covers this topic. The conversation emphasizes the importance of these resources for understanding the Virial theorem.
shounakbhatta
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Hello,

I am reading Virial theorem from Wikipedia.

It states in astrophysics, virial relations are:

3/5 GM/R=3/2...

I want to know how this 3/5 and 3/2 value comes from?

If somebody can explain the step by step deduction of the Virial theorem in Astrophysics...

Thanks,

-- Shounak
 
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Why not look it up yourself? The book Galaxy Formation by Malcom S. Longair has a derivation in section 3.5.1 (page 63). Actually, you can even read this section as part of the Google Books preview:

http://books.google.ca/books?id=e-wJHSBOuZAC&printsec=frontcover#v=onepage&q&f=false

I also seem to recall that Caroll & Ostlie (the huge orange textbook that many undergrads majoring in astro use) has a section on this as well.
 

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