Can galaxy clusters rotate like individual galaxies?

In summary, a rotating galaxy cluster is a group of galaxies that orbit each other due to the force of gravity and contains a large amount of dark matter. Scientists measure the rotation of these clusters using spectroscopy and studying the wavelength of light. This is significant because it helps us understand the distribution and behavior of dark matter and the formation of galaxies. The rotation of galaxy clusters can be affected by external factors such as nearby clusters or the expansion of the universe. Ongoing research and missions, such as the Dark Energy Survey and the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope, are focused on studying rotating galaxy clusters to gain a better understanding of dark matter and the evolution of the universe.
  • #1
smallphi
441
2
At scales of galaxies there is obvious rotational motion but I am wondering if there is an example of a rotating galaxy cluster or super cluster?

The rotation could be detected by redshifts the same way it's detected for galaxies. Possibly the rotation would lead to squashing the cluster shape away from spherical due to centrifugal force.
 
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  • #2
Have you tried this resource? It shows the structure of the digital universe.
http://www.haydenplanetarium.org/universe/duguide/whatisdu.php [Broken]
 
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  • #3
Very fun to play with, thanks !
 
  • #4
You might find http://adsabs.harvard.edu/abs/2007ApJ...662..236H" interesting.
 
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1. What is a rotating galaxy cluster?

A rotating galaxy cluster is a group of galaxies that move and orbit around each other due to the force of gravity. The rotation is typically caused by the presence of a large amount of dark matter, which makes up the majority of the cluster's mass.

2. How do scientists measure the rotation of galaxy clusters?

Scientists measure the rotation of galaxy clusters by using spectroscopy, which involves analyzing the light emitted by the galaxies. By studying the wavelengths of the light, scientists can determine the speed and direction of the rotation.

3. What is the significance of studying rotating galaxy clusters?

Studying rotating galaxy clusters is important because it helps scientists understand the distribution and behavior of dark matter, which makes up about 85% of the total matter in the universe. It also provides insight into the formation and evolution of galaxies within the cluster.

4. Can the rotation of galaxy clusters be affected by external factors?

Yes, the rotation of galaxy clusters can be affected by external factors such as the gravitational pull of nearby clusters or superclusters, as well as the expansion of the universe.

5. Are there any ongoing research or missions focused on studying rotating galaxy clusters?

Yes, there are ongoing research projects and missions such as the Dark Energy Survey and the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope that are specifically studying the rotation of galaxy clusters to better understand the properties of dark matter and the evolution of the universe.

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