Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
1999-05-05
Ann.Rev.Astron.Astrophys. 37 (1999) 311-362
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
48 pages, annual review latex, 4 figures supplied, 2 not supplied
Scientific paper
10.1146/annurev.astro.37.1.311
The physical conditions in molecular clouds control the nature and rate of star formation, with consequences for planet formation and galaxy evolution. The focus of this review is on the conditions that characterize regions of star formation in our Galaxy. A review of the tools and tracers for probing physical conditions includes summaries of generally applicable results. Further discussion distinguishes between the formation of low-mass stars in relative isolation and formation in a clustered environment. Evolutionary scenarios and theoretical predictions are more developed for isolated star formation, and observational tests are beginning to interact strongly with the theory. Observers have identified dense cores collapsing to form individual stars or binaries, and analysis of some of these support theoretical models of collapse. Stars of both low and high mass form in clustered environments, but massive stars form almost exclusively in clusters. The theoretical understanding of such regions is considerably less developed, but observations are providing the ground rules within which theory must operate. The most rich and massive star clusters form in massive, dense, turbulent cores, which provide models for star formation in other galaxies.
No associations
LandOfFree
Physical Conditions in Regions of Star Formation 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 Physical Conditions in Regions of Star Formation, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Physical Conditions in Regions of Star Formation will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-145399