Formula for the star density of the milky way?

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SUMMARY

The star density of the Milky Way follows an exponential decay model, expressed as Density ∝ e-R/a * e-h/b, where R represents the radial distance and h represents the vertical height from the galactic center. The constants a and b are approximately 8 kpc and 1 kpc, respectively, which define the scale of the density fall-off. This model excludes the central bulge of the galaxy, focusing on the disk's structure. For precise values, consulting astrophysical research papers is recommended.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of exponential functions in mathematical modeling
  • Familiarity with astronomical distance units, specifically kiloparsecs (kpc)
  • Basic knowledge of the structure of the Milky Way galaxy
  • Experience with astrophysical research methodologies
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the derivation of the exponential density profile in galactic structures
  • Explore astrophysical papers on star density measurements in the Milky Way
  • Learn about the implications of the central bulge on overall galactic density
  • Investigate other models of galactic density distribution beyond the Milky Way
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysics students, and researchers interested in galactic structure and star density modeling will benefit from this discussion.

pere plank
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It would be great if any of you could give me an approximate formula of the star density of the milky way, as far as i know (and I'm not pretty sure), it falls off exponentially, both vertically and radially. The formula i have in my head would be something like
##Density \propto e^{-R/a}*e^{-h/b}##
where R and h would be the radius and the height (taking as center the center of the galaxy) and a and b would be constants that i need to find.

how wrong am i? could you help me find a and b? (the central budge isn't included in that formula)
 
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Yeah that's about right. If I remember correctly, a is about 8kpc and b is about 1kpc. I'm sure you can find more accurate numbers in papers.
 

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