The mass of a single galaxy might be found by
A)the double galaxy method.
B)the rotation curve method.
C)the cluster method.
D)any of the methods (i.e., double galaxy, rotation curve, cluster)
E)none of these methods.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rotation curve method is the best choice for finding the mass of a single galaxy. This method involves measuring the velocities of stars or gas clouds in the galaxy as a function of their distance from the galactic center. From this data, the mass of the galaxy can be estimated using the laws of gravity and motion. The other methods listed (double galaxy and cluster method) are better suited for measuring the mass of groups of galaxies rather than individual ones.

The Mass of a Single Galaxy Might Be Found by