Could an eliptical galaxy exist with an axis of rotation?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the possibility of elliptical galaxies having an axis of rotation, exploring whether such a rotation is feasible and the implications for their characteristics and existence in the observable universe.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions if an elliptical galaxy could rotate around an axis similarly to spiral galaxies, seeking clarification on the nature of the rotation.
  • Another participant asserts that many elliptical galaxies are observed to rotate, suggesting that the proposed rotation period of 50 million years is unlikely due to the larger size and slower rotation rates of elliptical galaxies compared to spirals.
  • A further contribution emphasizes that 50 million years is an unrealistic estimate for rotation periods, proposing that fast dwarf elliptical galaxies might have longer periods, potentially around 100 million years, based on referenced data.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the feasibility of elliptical galaxies rotating on an axis, with some asserting that such rotation is possible while others challenge the proposed rotation period as unlikely. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specifics of rotation in elliptical galaxies.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions about rotation periods and the definitions of galaxy types, as well as the dependency on observational data that may not fully capture the dynamics of elliptical galaxies.

ilikescience94
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I was wondering if a galaxy could be perfectly orbiting to create a sort of axis of rotation, with a period being like 50 million years, or is it impossible because of some property that elliptical galaxies have? If it is possible, what is the probability that it exists in our observable universe, is it far-fetched to think?
 
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Are you asking whether an elliptical galaxy could be spinning around an axis similar to how spiral galaxies do? Or are you asking about something orbiting an elliptical galaxy?
 
I'm talking about the galaxy itself rotating on an axis.
 
Many ellipticals are seen to rotate. (A quick check with Google would have shown that) 50 million years is very unlikely. Ellipticals tend to be larger and rotate more slowly than spirals, and this is much faster than the Milky Way's rotation.
 
Vanadium 50 said:
50 million years is very unlikely. Ellipticals tend to be larger and rotate more slowly than spirals, and this is much faster than the Milky Way's rotation.
Wouldn't that be about right for a fast dwarf elliptical?
http://arxiv.org/abs/astro-ph/0204173
I'm not sure if I'm reading it right, but looking at fig.2, at least some of these velocities mean about 100-ish million year periods, I think.
 

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