Concept explainers
Explain about two techniques for measuring the mass of a galaxy.
Answer to Problem 1RD
The two techniques are rotation curves and binary galaxy system method.
Explanation of Solution
The mass of a galaxy can be measured in several different ways.
The most accurate technique is the rotation curve method.
In this method, Kepler’s third law can be applied to determine the mass of a galaxy.
In this technique, the velocity of rotation can be measured.
The other technique is a binary galaxy system method.
In this technique, the galaxy is part of a binary galaxy system, again Kepler’s third law can be applied to this technique also. And now to the orbit of the galaxies around each other.
In this method, there are some uncertainties. For a statistical result to be obtained, it is best applied to a large number of binaries in order.
Conclusion:
Therefore, thetwo techniques are rotation curves and binary galaxy system method.
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Chapter 16 Solutions
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