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If objects in the universe are built hierarchically, wouldn't one expect a Galaxy Cluster that is roughly spherical to follow the same profile as an elliptical galaxy?
I'm studying the Coma Cluster. If they don't follow De Vaucouleurs' Law, which law describes the luminosity or mass profile for a cluster of galaxies?Drakkith said:Not necessarily. Can I ask what makes you think that?
De Vaucouleurs' Law is a scientific theory proposed by French astronomer Gerard de Vaucouleurs in the 1950s. It states that the brightness of galaxies decreases in a predictable way as you move outward from the center of the galaxy. This is known as the surface brightness profile.
De Vaucouleurs' Law applies to individual galaxies, but it can also be applied to galaxy clusters. This is because galaxy clusters are made up of many individual galaxies, and their combined surface brightness profiles can be used to determine the overall structure of the cluster.
No, not all galaxy clusters follow De Vaucouleurs' Law. While it is a useful tool for understanding the general structure of galaxy clusters, there are many factors that can affect the surface brightness profiles of individual galaxies within the cluster, such as interactions with neighboring galaxies and the effects of dark matter.
De Vaucouleurs' Law is typically measured by studying the surface brightness profiles of individual galaxies within the cluster and then using statistical methods to determine the overall surface brightness profile of the cluster. This can be done using data from telescopes and other astronomical instruments.
De Vaucouleurs' Law has helped scientists gain a better understanding of the overall structure and formation of galaxy clusters. By studying the surface brightness profiles of galaxies within a cluster, we can learn more about how these massive structures form and evolve over time. It also provides a valuable tool for studying the effects of dark matter and other phenomena within galaxy clusters.