What is density of dark matter as a function of distance from the galactic core?

In summary, the density of dark matter as a function of distance from the galactic core typically decreases with increasing distance, exhibiting a profile that often follows a specific mathematical form, such as the Navarro-Frenk-White (NFW) profile. This profile suggests that dark matter is more concentrated in the central regions of galaxies and becomes less dense farther out, influencing the gravitational dynamics and formation of galactic structures. Understanding this distribution is crucial for studying galaxy formation and the overall behavior of the universe's matter content.
  • #1
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Homework Statement
Because of dark matter, our stars in the Galaxy with core of radius ##r_1##, whose matter is distributed spherically symetrically, are moving with speed ##v_0## that is not dependent on distance from the Galaxy's centre. This is true for distances from the centre smaller than ##r_2##. Consider the distribution of dark matter to be spherically symetric around the centre. What is denisty of dark matter dependent on distance ##r## from the Galaxy's centre in interval from ##r_1## to ##r_2##?
Relevant Equations
##G\frac{mM}{r^2}=m\frac {{v_0}^2}{r}##
##M_1=\frac{{v_0}^2r_1}{G}##
This problem builds on my previous post, where we calculated that core's mass is ##M_1=\frac{{v_0}^2r_1}{G}##. So if we consider mass of dark matter dependent on distance ##r## to be ##M_2(r)##, we can calculated it from

##G\frac{(M_2(r)+M_1)m}{r^2}=m\frac{{v_0}^2}{r}.##

So ##M_2(r)=\frac{{v_0}^2}{G}(r-r_1)##.

An average density in interval from ##r## to ##r+\Delta r## is ##\frac{\frac{{v_0}^2}{G}(r+\Delta r-r_1)-\frac{{v_0}^2}{G}(r-r_1)}{\frac 43 \pi [(r+\Delta r)^3-{r_1}^3]-\frac 43 \pi (r^3-{r_1}^3)}##. If we make a limit of it for ##\Delta r \rightarrow 0##, we get

##\rho(r)=\frac{{v_0}^2}{4\pi r^2G}##.

Is it correct? If not, where are my thoughts wrong?
 
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  • #2
Looks right.
 

FAQ: What is density of dark matter as a function of distance from the galactic core?

What is the density profile of dark matter in a galaxy?

The density profile of dark matter in a galaxy is typically described by models such as the Navarro-Frenk-White (NFW) profile or the Einasto profile. These models suggest that the density of dark matter decreases with increasing distance from the galactic core.

How does the density of dark matter change with distance from the galactic core?

As one moves away from the galactic core, the density of dark matter generally decreases. In the NFW profile, for example, the density falls off as 1/r in the inner regions and as 1/r^3 in the outer regions, where r is the distance from the galactic center.

What observational evidence supports the density profiles of dark matter?

Observational evidence supporting dark matter density profiles comes from rotation curves of galaxies, gravitational lensing, and the cosmic microwave background. These observations indicate the presence of unseen mass that influences the motion of stars and galaxies.

Are there variations in dark matter density profiles among different types of galaxies?

Yes, there are variations in dark matter density profiles among different types of galaxies. For example, dwarf galaxies often show a "cored" profile where the density is relatively constant in the inner regions, while larger galaxies like spirals often fit the NFW profile better.

How do simulations help in understanding the density of dark matter?

Simulations play a crucial role in understanding the density of dark matter. They allow scientists to model the formation and evolution of galaxies under the influence of dark matter, providing insights into how dark matter is distributed and how it affects galactic dynamics.

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