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Redshift to Distance Formula:
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The redshift to distance calculation estimates the distance to astronomical objects using their redshift (z) and the Hubble constant (H₀). This is based on Hubble's Law which states that more distant galaxies are moving away faster, showing greater redshifts.
The calculator uses the simplified formula for low redshift values:
Where:
Explanation: For small redshifts (z < 0.1), this linear approximation of Hubble's Law provides reasonably accurate distance estimates.
Details: Measuring cosmic distances is fundamental to cosmology, helping us understand the scale, age, and expansion rate of the universe. Accurate distances are needed to study galaxy properties, dark energy, and the large-scale structure of the universe.
Tips: Enter the redshift value (z) and Hubble constant (H₀). The default H₀ value is 70 km/s/Mpc. Results are provided in meters, megaparsecs, and light years.
Q1: What is redshift?
A: Redshift (z) measures how much an object's light is stretched to longer wavelengths due to the expansion of the universe.
Q2: Why is this only accurate for low z?
A: For z > 0.1, relativistic effects become significant and more complex equations accounting for the universe's curvature and expansion history are needed.
Q3: What is the Hubble constant?
A: H₀ is the current expansion rate of the universe, measured in km/s per megaparsec. Current estimates range from 67-74 km/s/Mpc.
Q4: What are typical redshift values?
A: Nearby galaxies: z < 0.01; Distant galaxies: z ≈ 0.1-1; Most distant quasars: z > 7.
Q5: How accurate is this method?
A: For z < 0.1, errors are typically <5%. For larger z, consider more sophisticated calculators incorporating cosmological parameters.