Gravity and the Rotation of Galaxies

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the relationship between gravity and the rotation of galaxies, specifically addressing the lab questions regarding observed speeds and mass estimation methods. The equation v = √(Gmg/r) is referenced to explain observed speeds, with the conclusion that variations in G can lead to different results. Astronomers typically estimate galaxy mass using virial theory and determine radius through observational data, acknowledging that these methods yield approximate values.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational equations, specifically v = √(Gmg/r)
  • Familiarity with virial theory for mass estimation
  • Knowledge of observational techniques in astronomy
  • Basic comprehension of the gravitational constant (G)
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the application of virial theorem in astrophysics
  • Explore observational methods for measuring galaxy radius
  • Study the implications of varying the gravitational constant (G) in cosmology
  • Learn about the dynamics of galaxy rotation curves and dark matter
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy students, astrophysicists, and anyone interested in understanding galaxy dynamics and the effects of gravity on rotational speeds.

sweet-stuff
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
hey i need help! We are doing a lab on the above title and I have no idea how to do it.
So there are few questions i wanted to know to ace this lab. lol i will really appreciate it if someone can help me.

- Describe the differences between the two sets of data. Is the observed speeds explained by the equation
v = √Gmg/ r ? Justify your answer

-Briefly describe some of the methods astronomers use to estimate the mass of a galaxy, its radius and the value of G.


Please, it will be really helpful if someone can help me!
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
Galaxy mass, usually by virial theory. Radius by observation. Both methods are approximate. G is assumed. Wiggle G and any result is possible.
 

Similar threads

Undergrad Rotation curve of a gas disk in an elliptical galaxy
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Undergrad Explanation for Galaxy Rotation Curves
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
Undergrad Objective classification of spiral galaxies
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Graduate Flat galaxy rotation curves without dark matter
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
High School Law of Gravity & Stars in Galaxy
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K
Graduate How to Calculate Rotation Curves for a Spiral Galaxy?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Undergrad Questions regarding dark matter dynamics
  • · Replies 65 ·
3
Replies
65
Views
9K
Undergrad On gravity and the conservation of energy
  • · Replies 30 ·
2
Replies
30
Views
5K
High School Neutron star 4U 1820-30 spins at 716 revolutions per second
  • · Replies 0 ·
Replies
0
Views
3K
Graduate How did gravity build astronomical objects that rotate?
  • · Replies 31 ·
2
Replies
31
Views
7K