Dark Matter - How strong is it at a galaxy periphery?

In summary, the influence of dark matter at the periphery, specifically 50,000 light years away from the center, is typically around 80-97% stronger than the acceleration due to gravity caused by visible matter. This is based on the equation v^2 proportional to the mass inside divided by the radius, with the mass inside being proportional to the gravitational force and stars' acceleration due to gravity. Other galaxies have a similar situation, with dark matter dominating further away from the center. At 50 kiloparsecs, the distribution is estimated to be 25% visible matter and 75% dark matter.
  • #1
Bjarne
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How strong is the influence of dark matter typically at the periphery (50.000 LY away from the center) for example in the Milky Way

I mean is the Acceleration Due to Gravity (due to dark matter) (typically) 80% - 85% - 90% - 95 % - or 97% stronger as the Acceleration Due to Gravity caused by visible matter.
 
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  • #2
Here is a website I found which discusses this. v^2 is proportional to the mass inside divided by the radius, and the mass inside is proportinal to the gravitational force and the stars acceleration due to gravity.
1pc = 3,3 ly.

Compared to the Milky Way, other galaxies are easier to observe, but I think the situation is similar here. At ~50kly, dark and visible matter have a similar influence, further away from the center dark matter dominates - the presented fit indicates a distribution of 25%/75% at 50kpc.
 

1. What is dark matter?

Dark matter is a hypothetical form of matter that does not emit, absorb or reflect light, making it invisible to traditional methods of detection. It is believed to make up about 85% of the total matter in the universe.

2. How is dark matter detected?

Dark matter is detected through its gravitational effects on visible matter, such as stars and galaxies. Scientists also use indirect methods such as measuring the rotation curves of galaxies and observing the bending of light from distant objects.

3. How strong is dark matter at a galaxy periphery?

The strength of dark matter at a galaxy periphery is still a subject of ongoing research and debate. However, current evidence suggests that it is significantly stronger than the visible matter in galaxies, making up the majority of a galaxy's mass.

4. What role does dark matter play in the formation of galaxies?

Dark matter is thought to have played a crucial role in the formation and evolution of galaxies. Its gravitational pull helped to clump together gas and dust, leading to the formation of stars and galaxies. Without dark matter, it is unlikely that galaxies would have formed as quickly or in such large numbers.

5. Can dark matter be destroyed or created?

Dark matter cannot be destroyed or created as it is a fundamental particle that cannot be broken down. However, it can interact with other particles through gravity and possibly through other unknown means, leading to changes in its distribution throughout the universe.

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