Finding the number of stars in the milky way

In summary, we are trying to determine the number of stars in the Milky Way with masses greater than or equal to the Sun. Using the given distribution of star masses and the equation dN/dm ∝ m−2, we can set up an integral to find the value of K, which is the constant of proportionality. Once we have this value, we can integrate again between 1 solar mass and 100 solar masses to find the total number of stars in the Milky Way with greater or equal mass.
  • #1
BOAS
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19

Homework Statement



The Milky Way contains 100 billion stars. The present masses of stars in the Milky Way are distributed according to dN/dm ∝ m−2 , and that stars have masses between 0.1 M and 100 M

M = Solar mass

Determine the number of stars with masses greater than or equal to the Sun.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



[itex]\frac{dN}{dm} ∝ m^{-2}[/itex]

[itex]\frac{dN}{dm} = k m^{-2}[/itex]

[itex]dN = k m^{-2} dm[/itex]

[itex]\int^{100 \times 10^{9}}_{0} dN = \int^{100M}_{0.1M} k m^{-2} dm[/itex]

N = 100 billion, but I'm just leaving it as N for now.

[itex]N = - \frac{K}{m}|^{100M}_{0.1M}[/itex]

[itex]N = \frac{999K}{100M}[/itex]

I am a bit confused about the physical meaning of this and where to go next...

Do I use this to find a numerical answer for K and then integrate again between 1 solar mass and 100 solar masses to find the number of stars in the milky way with greater or equal mass?

Thanks for any help you can give!
 
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  • #2
BOAS said:
Do I use this to find a numerical answer for K and then integrate again between 1 solar mass and 100 solar masses to find the number of stars in the milky way with greater or equal mass?

Yes. You're on the right track. Just keep going.
 

What is the estimated number of stars in the Milky Way?

The estimated number of stars in the Milky Way is approximately 200-400 billion.

How do scientists determine the number of stars in the Milky Way?

Scientists use a variety of methods to estimate the number of stars in the Milky Way, such as analyzing star counts in different regions of the galaxy, measuring the galaxy's mass, and using computer simulations.

What is the significance of knowing the number of stars in the Milky Way?

Knowing the number of stars in the Milky Way helps scientists understand the structure and evolution of our galaxy, as well as the distribution and dynamics of its stars.

How does the number of stars in the Milky Way compare to other galaxies?

The Milky Way is considered a medium-sized galaxy, and its estimated number of stars falls within the range of other spiral galaxies of similar size.

Is it possible to accurately count every single star in the Milky Way?

No, it is not possible to accurately count every single star in the Milky Way due to the vastness of the galaxy and the limitations of current technology. However, scientists continue to develop new methods and technologies to improve these estimates.

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