Dark matter and old shell theorem

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relevance of the old shell theorem to the dark matter problem in astrophysics. Participants explore how gravitational modeling of galaxies, particularly spherical clusters and spiral galaxies, may relate to dark matter explanations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the old shell theorem could explain dark matter by indicating that gravity increases linearly with distance from the center of a spherical cluster of galaxies.
  • Another participant questions the specific proposition being discussed and recommends resources on galactic dynamics for further understanding.
  • A participant clarifies that the proposition is that "dark matter might be explained by applying the shell theorem."
  • It is noted that the shell theorem is used in modeling galactic gravitational potentials, particularly for spherically symmetric matter distributions, but that this modeling alone does not account for observed rotational velocities, leading to the dark matter hypothesis.
  • Participants acknowledge that when modeling dark matter distribution as a spherically symmetric halo, the shell theorem is again applicable.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the applicability of the shell theorem to dark matter, with some supporting its relevance while others highlight limitations in its explanatory power regarding galactic dynamics.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the complexities of gravitational modeling in galaxies or the implications of the shell theorem for dark matter, leaving open questions about the assumptions and limitations of these models.

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From an outsiders view, it appears that the old shell theorem is relevant to the dark matter issue: If one views a spherical cluster of galaxies as an interconnected structure, gravity would increase linearly with distance from the center and be greatest at the edge of the cluster.
For a spiral galaxy, that is more like a disk, there would be much less variation with distance ( a flat disk having none at all ) and orbital velocities should still be higher than expected when denying the applicability of the shell theorem.

I am wondering weather this proposition has been discussed anywhere and, if so, where? I would like to read up on it.

Thank you in advance.
 
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I'm not sure what 'proposition' you have in mind, exactly. In any case, in order to find out how galactic gravitational potentials are modeled, you'll want a textbook or a course on galactic dynamics.

This might be of some use:
http://www.astro.utu.fi/~cflynn/galdyn/
(esp. module 3 & 4)
 
The proposition I have in mind is that "dark matter might be explained by applying the shell theorem". And, thank you for the link.
 
As you can see in the linked material, shell theorem is very much used in modelling galactic gravitational potentials - for those components that can be approximated as spherically symmetric matter distributions.
Once you add all the different components, you end up with a potential that is insufficient to explain the rotational velocities. Hence the need for dark matter.
When modelling galactic dark matter distribution as a spherically symmetric halo, you'd once again use the shell theorem.

It is a pretty basic piece of physics, after all.
 
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Thanks again
 

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