Calculating the mass of a galaxy bulge

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the mass of galaxy bulges, specifically for the Milky Way and Andromeda, using the de Vaucouleurs profile. The integral forms for surface density and mass are provided, but the user encounters difficulties obtaining meaningful results in Mathematica. The conversation highlights the need for an industry-standard method beyond traditional table lookups, referencing relevant academic papers for further insights.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of de Vaucouleurs profile in astrophysics
  • Proficiency in Mathematica for numerical integration
  • Familiarity with integral calculus and astrophysical mass calculations
  • Knowledge of galaxy structure and dynamics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research advanced numerical integration techniques in Mathematica
  • Explore the de Vaucouleurs profile and its applications in galaxy modeling
  • Study the referenced papers: "Disk-Bulge-Halo Models for the Andromeda Galaxy" and "Rotation and Mass in the Milky Way and Spiral Galaxies"
  • Investigate alternative methods for calculating galaxy bulge mass, such as using N-body simulations
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysicists, and students involved in galaxy dynamics and mass estimation, particularly those seeking to enhance their computational methods in astrophysical research.

Jules Winnfield
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I'm looking for a usable method to calculate the bulge mass of, say, the Milky Way or Andromeda. Most of the literature I've read agree that a de Vaucouleurs profile is the way to go. However, I'm unable to get an exact solution using Mathematica. The general form of the integral is:$$\Sigma_b(r)=\Sigma_{be}exp\left(-\kappa(\frac{r}{a_b})^{\frac{1}{4}}-1 \right)$$$$M_b=2\pi\int_{0}^{\infty}r\Sigma_b(r) dr=22.665 a_b^2 \Sigma_{be}$$ $$\rho_b(r)=\int_r^\infty\frac{d\Sigma_b(x)}{dx}\frac{1}{\sqrt{x^2-r^2}}dx$$$$M_b(R)=4\pi\int_0^R\rho_b(r)r^2 dr$$Attempting these integrals in Mathematica leaves me with meaningless results. Has anyone got an 'industry standard' method for doing this calculation. I've been using Young's tables until now and I was hoping there was a better method than just a table lookup.
 
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