Dark matter and old shell theorem

In summary, the conversation discusses the relevance of the old shell theorem to the issue of dark matter and how it is used in modeling galactic gravitational potentials. It is suggested that dark matter may be explained by applying the shell theorem and this concept is further explained with the use of a link provided. The conversation also mentions the need for a textbook or course on galactic dynamics to fully understand this concept.
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From an outsiders view, it appears that the old shell theorem is relevant to the dark matter issue: If one views a spherical cluster of galaxies as an interconnected structure, gravity would increase linearly with distance from the center and be greatest at the edge of the cluster.
For a spiral galaxy, that is more like a disk, there would be much less variation with distance ( a flat disk having none at all ) and orbital velocities should still be higher than expected when denying the applicability of the shell theorem.

I am wondering weather this proposition has been discussed anywhere and, if so, where? I would like to read up on it.

Thank you in advance.
 
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  • #2
I'm not sure what 'proposition' you have in mind, exactly. In any case, in order to find out how galactic gravitational potentials are modeled, you'll want a textbook or a course on galactic dynamics.

This might be of some use:
http://www.astro.utu.fi/~cflynn/galdyn/
(esp. module 3 & 4)
 
  • #3
The proposition I have in mind is that "dark matter might be explained by applying the shell theorem". And, thank you for the link.
 
  • #4
As you can see in the linked material, shell theorem is very much used in modelling galactic gravitational potentials - for those components that can be approximated as spherically symmetric matter distributions.
Once you add all the different components, you end up with a potential that is insufficient to explain the rotational velocities. Hence the need for dark matter.
When modelling galactic dark matter distribution as a spherically symmetric halo, you'd once again use the shell theorem.

It is a pretty basic piece of physics, after all.
 
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Thanks again
 

1. What is dark matter and how is it different from regular matter?

Dark matter is a type of matter that does not interact with light and therefore cannot be seen. It is different from regular matter because it does not emit or absorb light, making it invisible to telescopes and other instruments. However, it is still believed to make up a significant portion of the universe.

2. What is the old shell theorem and how does it relate to dark matter?

The old shell theorem is a physics principle that states that a spherically symmetric body exerts the same gravitational force on a particle both inside and outside of the body. This theorem is important in understanding the distribution and behavior of dark matter, as it helps scientists model and predict its effects on galaxies and other cosmic structures.

3. How do scientists study dark matter?

Scientists study dark matter through a variety of methods, including observing its gravitational effects on visible matter, detecting the radiation it may emit, and using computer simulations to model its distribution and behavior. These methods help us understand the properties and role of dark matter in the universe.

4. What is the current understanding of dark matter?

The current understanding of dark matter is that it is a non-baryonic, or non-atomic, type of matter that makes up about 27% of the total matter in the universe. It is believed to play a crucial role in the formation and evolution of cosmic structures, such as galaxies and galaxy clusters.

5. Is there any evidence for the existence of dark matter?

Yes, there is strong evidence for the existence of dark matter. Observations of the rotation of galaxies, the bending of light in gravitational lensing, and the cosmic microwave background all point to the presence of dark matter. However, its exact nature and composition are still unknown and continue to be a subject of ongoing research and study.

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