Andromeda 5x bigger than previously thought.

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    Andromeda
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SUMMARY

The Andromeda galaxy is now understood to be five times larger than previously estimated, significantly impacting our understanding of galaxy formation. Current theories suggest that the cores of galaxies, such as Andromeda, contain more metal-rich stars due to processes involving their central black holes. These black holes may draw in halo stars, leading to stellar fusion and supernovae that produce metals. The discussion raises questions about the necessity of dark matter in this context.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of galaxy formation theories
  • Knowledge of stellar evolution and supernova processes
  • Familiarity with black hole dynamics
  • Basic concepts of dark matter in astrophysics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the role of black holes in galaxy evolution
  • Study the processes of stellar fusion and metal production in supernovae
  • Explore the implications of dark matter on galaxy structure
  • Investigate recent findings on the size and composition of the Andromeda galaxy
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Astronomers, astrophysicists, and students interested in galaxy formation and evolution, particularly those focusing on the Andromeda galaxy and the role of black holes and dark matter.

Chaos' lil bro Order
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The article from space.com:
http://www.space.com/scienceastronomy/070107_andromeda_halo.html



I have a question about the article. What do current galaxy formation theories say about why the cores of galaxies like Andromeda have more metal-rich stars than their halos do? I am guessing that the halo stars slowly get drawn into Andromeda's central black hole and as a result, they coalesce into stars that are then capable of the fusion reactions and eventually the supernovae that are capable of creating metals, is this close?
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
So does it still need any dark matter?
 

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