B Does galaxy formation conserve mass and angular momentum?

Click For Summary
The discussion centers on the conservation of mass and angular momentum during galaxy formation from a collapsing gas cloud. Participants explore whether the mass and angular momentum of the original gas cloud and the resulting galaxy are equivalent, with some arguing that while individual particles may change their momentum, the total momentum of the system remains constant. The conversation highlights the complexities of gravitational interactions and the role of ejected mass in maintaining angular momentum. It is noted that fluctuations in angular momentum during the early universe, influenced by gravity and quantum mechanics, contribute to the formation of galaxies. Ultimately, the transformation from a uniform gas cloud to organized rotating galaxies involves intricate dynamics that challenge simplistic interpretations of angular momentum conservation.
  • #31
And I was hoping I could just say... L = m.r.v... a-ha, I caught you! :D... I'm wiser now
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
  • #32
fbs7 said:
(e) The whole thing is relativistic, so these are not easy equations
Relativistic effects should be negligible.
 

Similar threads

Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
653
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
1K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
403
  • · Replies 36 ·
2
Replies
36
Views
16K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K