Calculating distance of galaxy from Milkyway

  • Thread starter Thread starter University
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Galaxy
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the distance of a galaxy from the Milky Way using redshift measurements. The observed redshift (Z) is calculated using the formula Z = (observed wavelength - emitted wavelength) / emitted wavelength, resulting in a value of 0.101. This redshift indicates the galaxy is moving away from the Milky Way, but the discussion highlights that redshift alone does not directly provide distance without applying Hubble's Law. Hubble's Law relates redshift to distance, establishing a crucial connection between these two concepts.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of redshift and its calculation
  • Familiarity with Hubble's Law and its implications
  • Basic knowledge of spectral lines and wavelengths
  • Concept of cosmic expansion
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Hubble's Law and its application in cosmology
  • Learn about the relationship between redshift and distance in astronomy
  • Explore the significance of spectral lines in determining galaxy properties
  • Investigate tools for measuring redshift in astronomical observations
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysics students, and anyone interested in understanding cosmic distances and the expansion of the universe.

University
Messages
31
Reaction score
0
A galaxy is observed to have a significant redshift in all of its spectral lines. The line normally seen at a wavelength of 327 nm is instead observed at 360 nm. How far is this galaxy from the milkyway

My approach


All I can calculate here is the red shift based on the formula

Z= observe wavelength- emitted/ emitted


Z= 360-327/327
=0.101

This has nothing to do with distance or does it?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Hubble.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 37 ·
2
Replies
37
Views
7K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
6K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
Replies
6
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K