Astrophysics: Galaxy Rotation Curves and Dark Matter

Explore the fascinating mismatch between theoretical predictions and observational data in this 14-minute physics lecture on galaxy rotation curves. Learn how scientists calculate the expected velocity of stars based on their distance from galactic centers, and discover why the actual measurements don't match these calculations. Examine the compelling evidence that led astronomers to propose the existence of dark matter as an explanation for these discrepancies. The lecture also investigates what type of density function would be required to produce the observed rotation curves, providing insight into one of modern astrophysics' most intriguing mysteries.