How Does the Hubble Parameter Relate to Galaxy Movement?

In summary, the conversation is discussing the time derivative to calculate the speed of a galaxy moving away from another galaxy. The equation used is vi(t) = d/dt (ri(t) - r1(t)), which can be simplified to (∙a)/a (ri(t) - r1(t)) using the fact that ∙a = da/dt and a/a = 1. This is further explained by Leonard Susskind in a video where he derives the equation.
  • #1
Komorebi
1
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This is the time derivative to calculate the speed which a galaxy moves away from another galaxy. I don't understand how they get from da/dt (xi − x1) to (∙a)/a a(t). (xi − x1). Could anyone explain this? vi(t) = d/dt (ri(t) − r1(t))
= d/dt a(t)(xi − x1)
= da/dt (xi − x1)
= (∙a)/a a(t). (xi − x1) !
=(∙a)/a (ri(t) − r1(t))
= H(t) (ri(t) − r1(t))

[ ∙a= da/dt ]
 
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  • #2
It's a good idea to define the variables in an equation. Not everyone uses the same 'conventions'.
 
  • #3
Komorebi said:
how they get from da/dt (xi − x1) to (∙a)/a a(t). (xi − x1)
Since ##\frac{da}{dt}=\dot a##
and ##\frac{a}{a}=1##
You have ##\frac{da}{dt} \Delta x## multiplied by 1 to net you ##\frac{\dot a}{a}a\Delta x##.

If it still doesn't click, Leonard Susskind derives this here in a slightly different, but essentially the same manner:

(starting at 21:22 mark)
 
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Related to How Does the Hubble Parameter Relate to Galaxy Movement?

1. What is the Hubble parameter and why is it important in astronomy?

The Hubble parameter, also known as the Hubble constant, is a measure of the rate at which the universe is expanding. It is named after astronomer Edwin Hubble, who first discovered the expansion of the universe. The Hubble parameter is important because it helps us understand the age, size, and future fate of the universe.

2. How is the Hubble parameter calculated?

The Hubble parameter is calculated by measuring the redshift of light from distant objects in the universe. Redshift is the change in the wavelength of light due to the expansion of the universe. By measuring the redshift of multiple objects at different distances, scientists can determine the rate of expansion and calculate the Hubble parameter.

3. What is the current value of the Hubble parameter?

The current accepted value for the Hubble parameter is approximately 70 km/s/Mpc (kilometers per second per megaparsec). This means that for every megaparsec (3.26 million light-years) of distance, the expansion of the universe causes objects to move away from each other at a rate of 70 kilometers per second.

4. How has our understanding of the Hubble parameter changed over time?

The value of the Hubble parameter has been refined and adjusted over time as new observations and data have become available. In the early 20th century, it was believed to be around 500 km/s/Mpc. In the 1990s, the Hubble Space Telescope was able to make more accurate measurements, leading to the current accepted value of 70 km/s/Mpc.

5. What are some current research topics related to the Hubble parameter?

There is ongoing research and debate about the exact value of the Hubble parameter and how it may change over time. Scientists are also studying the effects of dark energy and dark matter on the expansion of the universe and how they may impact the Hubble parameter. Additionally, there is interest in using the Hubble parameter to study the history of the universe and the nature of dark energy and dark matter.

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