High School Orbits of galaxies in the Coma Cluster

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The discussion centers on the orbital dynamics of galaxies within the Coma Cluster, referencing Zwicky's 1933 findings on rotational curves. Participants clarify that Zwicky's conclusions were based on the virial theorem rather than redshift measurements, which are more associated with Vera Rubin's work. There is curiosity about whether the galaxies orbit in a uniform direction, randomly, or in a mixed pattern. The need for animations or simulations illustrating these movements is expressed, highlighting the complexity of interactions due to the cluster's gravitational dynamics. Overall, the conversation seeks to deepen understanding of galaxy trajectories within the Coma Cluster and similar formations.
Buckethead
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Because of Zwicky'f findings back in 1933 on the Coma Cluster rotational curves there is something I was wondering about with regard to this cluster. Are the galaxies orbiting in generally the same direction? (like a spiral galaxy) or in completely random directions like an Elliptical, or something in between the two (a spiral where some galaxies orbit at an angle above or below the disk plane?). Has anyone done an animation of the movements of the galaxies in the Coma or similar cluster? I read of a computer simulation of mass points similar to the Coma and I guess the interactions were quite complex because of the lack of a very strong central gravity but could not find out much more. Galaxy clusters similar to the Coma are fine too. Just curious about the general dynamics of any "typical" cluster (if there is such a thing). Thanks.
 
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Buckethead said:
Because of Zwicky'f findings back in 1933 on the Coma Cluster rotational curves
You are confusing the findings of Zwicky with those of Vera Rubin. Zwicky's conclusions were based on the virial theorem.
 
Ah, perhaps. I thought Zwicky was using redshift to observe speeds of galaxies in the Coma Custer and found them to be too fast. Similar to Rubin, but on a cluster scale instead of a galactic scale. What I couldn't find out was the actual trajectories of the galaxies in the Coma which is what I'm particularly interested in.
 
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