Density wave theory or the Lin-Shu density wave theory is a theory proposed by C.C. Lin and Frank Shu in the mid-1960s to explain spiral arm structure of spiral galaxies. Their theory introduces the idea of long-lived quasistatic density waves (also called heavy sound), which are sections of the galactic disk that have greater mass density (about 10–20% greater). The theory has also been successfully applied to Saturn's rings.
Read more about Density Wave Theory: Galactic Spiral Arms, Further Implications, Application To Saturn's Rings
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