Exploring the Relationship between Dark Matter and Gravity in Galaxies

[keepitmoving]

I've heard that most of dark matter is located in the outer portions of galaxies. If that is so, wouldn't the gravity from the dark matter tend to pull the galaxies apart?

 

[Chronos]

The center of mass is still within the galaxy.

 

[keepitmoving]

many thanks Chronos

 

[Chalnoth]

I've heard that most of dark matter is located in the outer portions of galaxies. If that is so, wouldn't the gravity from the dark matter tend to pull the galaxies apart?

Even if the dark matter wasn't more dense towards the center of the galaxy, the net gravitational force on the inside of a shell of matter is identically zero.

 

[sardar]

I can confirm that there is a strong relationship between dark matter and gravity in galaxies. While it is true that most of the dark matter is located in the outer portions of galaxies, it does not necessarily mean that it will pull the galaxies apart. In fact, the presence of dark matter actually helps to hold galaxies together.

Dark matter is a mysterious substance that does not emit or absorb light, making it difficult to detect. However, we know that it has a significant amount of mass and therefore exerts a gravitational force on surrounding objects, including galaxies. This gravitational force helps to counteract the outward motion of stars and gas in a galaxy, preventing it from flying apart.

In addition, dark matter is thought to be distributed in a spherical halo around galaxies, with the majority of its mass concentrated towards the center. This distribution creates a gravitational potential well that keeps the stars and gas within the galaxy bound together.

Furthermore, studies have shown that dark matter plays a crucial role in the formation and evolution of galaxies. Without its gravitational influence, galaxies would not have formed and evolved in the same way we observe them today.

In summary, while dark matter may be located in the outer portions of galaxies, it actually helps to hold them together through its gravitational force. Further research and observations are needed to fully understand the relationship between dark matter and gravity in galaxies, but it is clear that dark matter is a crucial component in our understanding of the universe.