Treating a galaxy as a quantum system

In summary, a galaxy is a large system of stars, gas, and dust held together by gravity. It can be treated as a quantum system using the principles of quantum mechanics, which allows for a better understanding of its properties and interactions. This approach has benefits such as providing a more accurate understanding of a galaxy's dynamics and potentially uncovering new insights into the universe. However, there are limitations to this approach as it does not fully explain the effects of gravity on a large scale. Nonetheless, treating a galaxy as a quantum system is relevant to current research in astrophysics and cosmology and has led to new theories and models to explain observations of galaxies in our universe.
  • #1
chesleyadams
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If a wave function could be assigned to a whole galaxy, would its mass spread along the wave? Could this account for the anomalies in our calculations for galactic spin?
 
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  • #2
No and no.
 
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  • #3
Hah, cool, was just wondering. So much of this doesn't make sense to me, but as I read about it, it doesn't seem to make sense to anybody else either. At least we keep trying.
 
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Mentors' note: Some speculative and off-topic posts have been removed from this thread.
 
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1. What is a galaxy?

A galaxy is a large system of stars, gas, and dust held together by gravity. It typically contains billions of stars and can range in size from a few thousand light-years to hundreds of thousands of light-years.

2. How can a galaxy be treated as a quantum system?

A galaxy can be treated as a quantum system by using the principles of quantum mechanics, which describe the behavior of particles at a subatomic level. This approach allows us to better understand the properties and interactions of the stars and gas within a galaxy.

3. What are the benefits of treating a galaxy as a quantum system?

Treating a galaxy as a quantum system can provide a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of its dynamics and evolution. It can also help us make predictions about the behavior of galaxies and potentially uncover new insights into the nature of the universe.

4. Are there any limitations to treating a galaxy as a quantum system?

Yes, there are limitations to treating a galaxy as a quantum system. While quantum mechanics can explain the behavior of particles within a galaxy, it does not fully account for the effects of gravity on a large scale. Therefore, treating a galaxy as a quantum system may not provide a complete picture of its behavior.

5. How is treating a galaxy as a quantum system relevant to current research?

Treating a galaxy as a quantum system is relevant to current research in astrophysics and cosmology, as it allows scientists to study the fundamental properties and evolution of galaxies. This approach has also led to new theories and models that help explain observations of galaxies in our universe.

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