Velocity Dispersion: Meaning & Difference Explained

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SUMMARY

Velocity dispersion refers to the range of velocities of stars or gas within a galaxy. The discussion highlights two primary types: stellar velocity dispersion, which pertains to the motion of stars, and molecular velocity dispersion, which relates to the movement of gas molecules. The ratio of stellar to gas velocity dispersion is a critical metric in understanding galaxy dynamics. This distinction is essential for astrophysicists studying galaxy formation and evolution.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of galaxy dynamics
  • Familiarity with stellar and molecular astrophysics
  • Knowledge of velocity dispersion concepts
  • Basic grasp of astrophysical measurements
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of stellar velocity dispersion on galaxy formation
  • Explore molecular velocity dispersion in star-forming regions
  • Study the methods for measuring velocity dispersion in galaxies
  • Investigate the relationship between velocity dispersion and galaxy morphology
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysicists, and students studying galaxy dynamics and formation will benefit from this discussion.

J Azeez
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What does mean by velocity dispersion of galaxy? What is the different between stellar velocity dispersion and molecular velocity dispersion?
 
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J Azeez said:
What does mean by velocity dispersion of galaxy? What is the different between stellar velocity dispersion and molecular velocity dispersion?
Welcome to the PF. :smile:

Please post links to the reading you have been doing about those terms, and then ask specific questions about that reading if you are having trouble understanding something in your links.
 
In this paper the author mentioned " the ratio of stellar to gas velocity dispersion "
I understand from that there are two types of velocity dispersion , am I right? if so what is the different between them?
 

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