What is the Mass of the Milky Way and How is it Calculated?

In summary, the current estimated mass of the Milky Way is about 1.5 trillion solar masses, determined through various methods such as measuring the velocities of stars and gas, studying satellite galaxies, and observing dark matter. The Milky Way is considered a medium-sized galaxy compared to others, and our understanding of its mass has evolved as new technologies and methods have developed. The mass of the Milky Way is important in understanding the universe and the formation and distribution of galaxies and dark matter.
  • #1
anyaxo
3
0
M = Mass of the galaxy = ?
r = Distance of sun from galactic centre = 10kpc= 3.09 x 1017 km (3 sf)
G = Gravitational constant = 6.67 x 10-11 Nm2kg-2
v = Radial velocity of the sun = 220,000 ms-2

Since the Sun’s orbit around the galactic centre is nearly circular, it undergoes circular motion and experiences a centripetal force:

〖mv〗^2/r = - GMm/r^2

v^2 = GM/r
M= ((220,000)^2 (3.09 ×〖10〗^17))/(6.67 ×〖10〗^(-11) )
=2.24 × 〖10〗^38 kg (3 sf)

However the mass of the Milky Way is said to be around 2 x 10^42 kg? help?
 
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  • #2
for one you mixed km with m
 

Related to What is the Mass of the Milky Way and How is it Calculated?

1. What is the current estimated mass of the Milky Way?

The current estimated mass of the Milky Way is about 1.5 trillion solar masses, or 1.5 x 10^12 solar masses.

2. How was the mass of the Milky Way determined?

The mass of the Milky Way is determined through various methods, including measuring the velocities of stars and gas in the galaxy, studying the dynamics of satellite galaxies, and observing the effects of dark matter on the galaxy's rotation.

3. How does the mass of the Milky Way compare to other galaxies?

The Milky Way is considered a medium-sized galaxy, with a mass similar to that of the Andromeda galaxy and about 10 times smaller than the largest known galaxies.

4. How has our understanding of the Milky Way's mass changed over time?

Our understanding of the Milky Way's mass has changed over time as new technologies and methods have been developed. Early estimates were much lower, but current estimates take into account the presence of dark matter, which makes up a significant portion of the galaxy's mass.

5. How does the mass of the Milky Way impact our understanding of the universe?

The mass of the Milky Way is one of many factors that influences our understanding of the universe. By studying the mass and structure of our own galaxy, we can gain insights into the formation and evolution of galaxies as a whole, as well as the distribution and properties of dark matter in the universe.

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