Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
Dec 1976
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1976apj...210..670m&link_type=abstract
Astrophysical Journal, vol. 210, Dec. 15, 1976, pt. 1, p. 670-678.
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
95
Astronomical Models, Galactic Structure, Spiral Galaxies, Star Formation, Density Wave Model, Gas Expansion, Interstellar Matter, Rotating Disks, Shock Wave Generators, Spherical Waves
Scientific paper
A simple model is proposed which describes the irregular optical appearance often seen in late-type spiral galaxies. If high-mass stars produce spherical shock waves which induce star formation, new high-mass stars will be born which, in turn, produce new shock waves. When this process operates in a differentially rotating disk, the present numerical model shows that large-scale spiral-shaped regions of star formation are built up. The structure is seen to be most sensitive to a parameter which governs how often a region of the interstellar medium can undergo star formation. For a proper choice of this parameter, large-scale features disappear before differential rotation winds them up. New spiral features continuously form, so some spiral structure is seen indefinitely. The structure is not the classical two-armed symmetric spiral pattern which the density-wave theory attempts to explain, but it is asymmetric and disorderly. The mechanism of propagating star formation used in the model is consistent with observations which connect young OB associations with expanding shells of gas. The possible interaction of this mechanism with density waves is discussed.
Arnett David. W.
Mueller M. W.
No associations
LandOfFree
Propagating star formation and irregular structure in spiral galaxies does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Propagating star formation and irregular structure in spiral galaxies, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Propagating star formation and irregular structure in spiral galaxies will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1048583