Dark matter predominantly resides in the outer regions of galaxies, influencing their gravitational dynamics. The gravitational pull from dark matter does not lead to the disintegration of galaxies, as the net gravitational force within a shell of matter is zero. This means that while dark matter contributes to the overall mass of a galaxy, it does not exert a force that would pull galaxies apart. Understanding these gravitational interactions is crucial for comprehending galaxy formation and stability.
PREREQUISITESAstronomers, astrophysicists, and students studying cosmology or galaxy dynamics will benefit from this discussion.
Even if the dark matter wasn't more dense towards the center of the galaxy, the net gravitational force on the inside of a shell of matter is identically zero.keepitmoving said:I've heard that most of dark matter is located in the outer portions of galaxies. If that is so, wouldn't the gravity from the dark matter tend to pull the galaxies apart?