This graph shows the relationship between a galaxy\'s velocity (in km/s) and its

Question

This graph shows the relationship between a galaxy's velocity (in km/s) and its distance (in Mpc). This relationship is called Hubble's Law; more distant galaxies are speeding away more quickly. The points represent individual galaxies and the line represents the best to the data.

If a galaxy has a velocity of 2375 km/s , what is a good estimate for its distance?

Hint: Find the spot on the y-axis that correspondsto a velocity of 2375 km/s and follow that y-value over to the line. Drop from the line down to the x-axis to find the corresponding distance in megaparsecs (Mpc).

Explanation / Answer

The required point can be found as

Along x- axis

5 small divisions = 5 Mpc

So 1 small division = 1 Mpc

Along y- axis

5 small divisions = 250 Km/s

So 1 small division = 50 Km/s

Hence from the graph we can see that point corresponding 2375 Km/s lies midway between 38 and 39 Mpc distance.

Hence good estimate would be taking the required distance as 38.5 Mpc

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse T
• Subjects

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.