Linear Potentials and Galactic Rotation Curves - Representative Fitting

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We present a simple, closed form expression for the potential of an axisymmetric disk of stars interacting through gravitational potentials of the form V(r)=-β/r+γr/2, the potential associated with fundamental sources in the conformal invariant fourth order theory of gravity which has recently been advanced by Mannheim and Kazanas as a candidate alternative to the standard second order Einstein theory. Using the model we obtain a reasonable fit to some representative galactic rotation curve data without the need for any non-luminous or dark matter. Our study suggests that the observed flatness of rotation curves might only be an intermediate phenomenon rather than an asymptotic one.