How Far Would a Galaxy Be with a Speed of c?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the visibility of galaxies moving at relativistic speeds, specifically at the speed of light (c) and 1.1c. Calculations indicate that a galaxy moving at speed c would be approximately 1.6 x 1010 light-years away, which is less than the observable universe limit of 4.65 x 1010 light-years, suggesting it would be visible from Earth. However, the consensus indicates that it may not be observable due to the limitations of the observable universe as defined in 1968. The Doppler Effect's relevance in this context remains unclear to some participants.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of relativistic physics, particularly concepts of speed and light.
  • Familiarity with the observable universe and Hubble's law.
  • Basic knowledge of the Doppler Effect and its implications in astronomy.
  • Ability to perform calculations involving astronomical distances and speeds.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of the Hubble parameter on the observable universe.
  • Study the Doppler Effect in the context of astrophysics and its impact on light from distant galaxies.
  • Explore the historical context of the observable universe as defined in 1968.
  • Learn about the methods used to calculate distances in cosmology, including redshift calculations.
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy students, astrophysicists, and anyone interested in the dynamics of galaxies and the limitations of the observable universe.

PhDeezNutz
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Homework Statement
According to Hubble's Law, the distant galaxies are receding from us speeds proportional to their distance from us;

$$v \left( r \right) = \alpha r$$

Where ##\alpha = 2.18 \cdot 10^{-18} \text{ sec}^{-1}##

(a) How far would a galaxy be whose speed with respect to the Earth is ##c##? Would it be observable from the Earth?

(b) Consider the same questions (including Doppler Effect) for a hypothetical galaxy for which ##v(r) = 1.1c##
Relevant Equations
$$v \left( r \right) = \alpha r$$

Where ##\alpha = 2.18 \cdot 10^{-18} \text{ sec}^{-1}##

$$1 \text{ lightyear} = 9.4608 \cdot 10^{15} \text{ m }$$

According to wikipedia the observable universe has a radius of ##4.65 \cdot 10^{10} \text{ lightyears}##
(a) How far would a galaxy be whose speed with respect to the Earth is ##c##? Would it be observable from the Earth?

r=rα=1.5⋅1026 m =1.6⋅1010 lightyears<4.65⋅1010 lightyearsr=rα=1.5⋅1026 m =1.6⋅1010 lightyears<4.65⋅1010 lightyearsr=rα=1.5⋅1026 m =1.6⋅1010 lightyears<4.65⋅1010 lightyears
r=ca=1.5⋅1026 m=1.6⋅1010 lightyears<4.65⋅1010lightyearsr=ca=1.5⋅1026 m=1.6⋅1010 lightyears<4.65⋅1010lightyears​
So Yes, the galaxy would be visible from the Earth. That said, the answers in the back of the book indicate that it is not (correct answer: No). That also said, my numerical answer for part (a) is correct according to the back of the book. Is it possible that the observable universe was smaller in 1968 when the book was published? I can't find what it was in 1968? Or is the method used/referenced in wiki different than the one under consideration?

(b) Consider the same questions (including Doppler Effect) for a hypothetical galaxy for which ##v(r) = 1.1c##

I honestly don't know how to do this apart accounting for Doppler Effect but here's what I get without accounting for Doppler Effect (using the approach from part(a)). There's no mention of wavelength or frequency so I don't understand how the Doppler Effect has anything to do with it.

r=1.1cα≈1.5⋅1026 m=1.6⋅1010 lightyears<4.65⋅1010 lightyearsr=1.1cα≈1.5⋅1026 m=1.6⋅1010 lightyears<4.65⋅1010 lightyears​
I'm lost. I don't even understand the premise of part(b).

Edit: I'm going to Latex it up and take pictures and post it because the latex on the forum seems to be messing up.

Image 5-1-20 at 3.31 PM.jpg
 
Last edited:
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Hi,

There are two different concepts: the Universe, and the observable universe ( a part of the Universe ).

In a universe with constant Hubble parameter, light emitted at the present time by objects outside the Hubble limit would never be seen by an observer on Earth.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hubble_volume

I hope it clarifies a bit.

Regards,
ORF
 
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