What can the rotation curve of a galaxy be used to determine?
A)the relative amount of gas and dust in the galaxy
B)the radius of the galaxy
C)the luminosity of the galaxy
D)the mass of the galaxy

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rotation curve of a galaxy can be used to determine the mass of the galaxy through the application of Newton's laws of motion and gravity. By measuring the velocities of stars or gas clouds at increasing distances from the center of the galaxy, the rotation curve can be constructed, which can then indicate the total mass of the galaxy within that distance.

What Can the Rotation Curve of a Galaxy Be Used