Is a Constant Velocity Dispersion a Solution to the Jeans Equations of Galaxy?

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In summary, the equation for the isotropic velocity dispersion of stars, sigma(r), can be expressed as the Jeans equation, where GM(<r)/r^2 = -(1/p*)d/dr(p*sigma^2). Assuming that the stellar density is equal to 0.8 times the total density, ptot(r)~1/r^2, it can be shown that a constant velocity dispersion, sigma(r) = sigma0, is a solution to this equation. Evaluating sigma0 for this galaxy yields an answer in km s^-1. It is not clear how to show that sigma0 is a solution using the given equation, but using the stellar density, we can get sigma0 squared = GM(<r)/2
  • #1
victoria13
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The equation for the isotropic velocity dispersion of the stars, sigma(r), is
the Jeans equation,
GM(< r)/r^2 = −(1/p*)d/dr(p*sigma^2)
Assume that the stellar density p*(r) = 0.8ptot(r), where ptot(r)~1/r^2,
as derived earlier. Show that a constant velocity dispersion, sigma(r) = sigma0,
is a solution to this equation, and evaluate sigma0 for this galaxy. Express
your answer in km s−1.

From the previous part of the question we have ptot(r)=(kT/2piG(mu)mp)(1/r^2).

basically i don't understand what it means by "show that sigma0 is a solution... i stick it into the equation and come out with sigma0 squared=GM(<r)/2r... but that isn't showing its a solution as such... any help??
 
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  • #2
What if you use the stellar density?
 

Related to Is a Constant Velocity Dispersion a Solution to the Jeans Equations of Galaxy?

1. What are Jeans equations of galaxy?

The Jeans equations of galaxy are a set of equations used in astrophysics to describe the dynamics and motion of stars and gas within a galaxy. They were developed by British physicist Sir James Jeans in the early 20th century.

2. How do Jeans equations of galaxy work?

The Jeans equations take into account the mass, density, and velocity of stars and gas in a galaxy to determine the overall gravitational potential and how it affects the motion of these objects.

3. What are the assumptions made in the Jeans equations of galaxy?

The Jeans equations make several assumptions, including that the galaxy is in a steady state, that it is spherically symmetric, and that the stars and gas are in thermal equilibrium.

4. Can the Jeans equations be applied to all types of galaxies?

The Jeans equations are most commonly used for elliptical galaxies, but they can also be applied to spiral galaxies and other types of galaxies. However, the assumptions made in the equations may not hold true for all types of galaxies.

5. What are the limitations of the Jeans equations of galaxy?

While the Jeans equations are a useful tool for understanding the dynamics of galaxies, they have some limitations. For example, they do not take into account the effects of dark matter, and they assume that the galaxy is in a steady state, which may not always be the case.

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