So what is it that makes mass segregation possible in clusters of galaxies - is it because they are more massive and slow?stefan r said:The Sun does not show mass segregation. All the elements remain present at the Sun's surface. At a galaxy scale molecules of gas are moving much to quickly. Convection dominates.
The gradient of heavier elements toward the galactic core and in the disc can be explained by an increased rate of star formation. It all started out as the same mix of gas but in denser regions the mass has been recycled through stars multiple times.
Black holes should be segregating toward the core of the galaxy. Large stars segregate into the center of clusters.
Ranku said:Can the flat rotation curve in an individual spiral galaxy, whereby heavier matter is concentrated at the center and hydrogen and dark matter is diffused, be also explained by dynamical friction?
Yes, you're right, and furthermore the observed distribution of heavier elements isn't enough to account for the peak in galactic rotation curves.Stefan r said:the gradient of heavier elements toward the galactic core and in the disk can be explained by an increased rate of star formation.