Dark matter density as a function of radius

In summary, the solution for the density of dark matter as a function of radius is based on the assumption that the observed matter moves in circular orbits due to the gravitational force from dark matter, and that the dark matter is distributed spherically symmetrically around the center of the galaxy. The equation used is ρ(R) = v^2 / (4πGR^2), where v is the velocity of the observed matter, G is the gravitational constant, and R is the radius.
  • #1
dillont
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Homework Statement


Evidence for dark matter comes from “flat” rotation curves of galaxies. Assume
that the observed matter moves in circular orbits about the center of the galaxy
and that the velocity of the matter as a function of the radius v(r) is a constant.
Also assume the motion of the observed matter is purely due to the gravity of
the dark matter (mass of luminous matter is negligible) and the dark matter is
distributed with spherical symmetry about the center of the galaxy. What is the
density ρ(r) of the dark matter as a function of radius?​

Homework Equations


[itex]F=\frac{GMm}{R^{2}}[/itex]

[itex]a=\frac{v^{2}}{R}[/itex]

The Attempt at a Solution


[itex]\frac{F}{m}=\frac{GM}{R^{2}}[/itex]

[itex]4\pi \frac{F}{m}=\frac{4\pi GM}{R^{2}}[/itex]

[itex]\frac{v^{2}}{R}=\frac{GM}{R^{2}}[/itex]

[itex]dM=4\pi\rho (R)R^{2}dR[/itex]

[itex]dM=\frac{v^{2}}{G}dR[/itex]

[itex]4\pi\rho (R)R^{2}dR=\frac{v^{2}}{G}dR[/itex]

[itex]\rho (R)=\frac{v^{2}}{4\pi GR^{2}}[/itex]

Does this look correct to you guys? Thanks.
 
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  • #2


I would like to provide some feedback on your solution. Your approach is correct, but there are a few things that could be clarified or expanded upon.

Firstly, you have correctly used the equation for gravitational force and the equation for centripetal acceleration to equate them and solve for the density. However, it would be helpful to mention that this is based on the assumption that the only force acting on the observed matter is the gravitational force from the dark matter.

Secondly, it would be useful to include the equation for the velocity of circular orbits, which is v = √(GM/R). This would help to explain where the v^2 term comes from in your solution.

Additionally, you could mention that the mass of the observed matter is negligible compared to the mass of the dark matter, which is why it can be ignored in this calculation.

Finally, it would be helpful to mention that this solution assumes a spherically symmetric distribution of dark matter, as stated in the problem.

Overall, your solution looks correct and provides a good explanation for the density of dark matter as a function of radius. Keep up the good work!
 

Related to Dark matter density as a function of radius

1. What is dark matter and why is it important to study its density as a function of radius?

Dark matter is a hypothetical type of matter that does not interact with light, making it invisible to telescopes and other traditional methods of detection. It is believed to make up about 85% of the total matter in the universe and plays a crucial role in the formation and evolution of galaxies. Understanding its density as a function of radius is important for gaining insights into the structure and dynamics of galaxies and the overall composition of the universe.

2. How do scientists measure the density of dark matter as a function of radius?

Scientists use a variety of methods to measure the dark matter density as a function of radius. One common approach is to study the rotation curves of galaxies, which can reveal the distribution of mass within the galaxy and allow scientists to estimate the amount of dark matter present. Another method involves studying the gravitational lensing effect of dark matter, which can distort the light from distant objects and provide information about its density.

3. Is the density of dark matter constant at all radii?

No, the density of dark matter is not constant at all radii. Studies have shown that the density of dark matter decreases with increasing distance from the center of a galaxy, following a specific distribution known as the NFW profile. This distribution is thought to be influenced by the gravitational pull of visible matter and the overall structure of the galaxy.

4. How does the density of dark matter vary in different types of galaxies?

The density of dark matter can vary significantly in different types of galaxies. For example, spiral galaxies tend to have a higher dark matter density in their outer regions, while elliptical galaxies have a more uniform distribution. This variation can provide clues about the formation and evolution of galaxies and the role of dark matter in these processes.

5. What are the implications of understanding the dark matter density as a function of radius?

Understanding the dark matter density as a function of radius has several implications for our understanding of the universe. It can help us refine our theories of dark matter and its interactions with other forms of matter, and provide insights into the large-scale structure of the universe and the formation of galaxies. Additionally, it can inform future research and experiments aimed at detecting and studying dark matter directly.

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