Introduction to Cosmology Ryden · Problem 7.2

Dark Matter

Physics — Astrophysics · dwarf-galaxy-mass-virial-theorem

Problem

The Draco galaxy is a dwarf galaxy within the Local Group. Its luminosity is L=(1.8±0.8)×105 L⊙L = (1.8 \pm 0.8)\times10^5\,L_\odot and half its total luminosity is contained within a sphere of radius rh=120±12r_h = 120 \pm 12 pc. The red giant stars in the Draco galaxy are bright enough to have their line-of-sight velocities measured. The measured velocity dispersion of the red giant stars in the Draco galaxy is σr=10.5±2.2\sigma_r = 10.5 \pm 2.2 km s−1^{-1}. What is the mass of the Draco galaxy? What is its mass-to-light ratio? Describe the possible sources of error in your mass estimate of this galaxy.

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