Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics – Galaxy Astrophysics
Scientific paper
2009-01-08
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
Galaxy Astrophysics
11 pages, 12 figures, MNRAS, in press; revised in response to referee report
Scientific paper
10.1111/j.1365-2966.2009.14638.x
We describe Monte Carlo models for the dynamical evolution of the nearby globular cluster NGC 6397. The code includes treatments of two-body relaxation, most kinds of three- and four-body interactions involving primordial binaries and those formed dynamically, the Galactic tide, and the internal evolution of both single and binary stars. We arrive at a set of initial parameters for the cluster which, after 12Gyr of evolution, gives a model with a fairly satisfactory match to the surface brightness profile, the velocity dispersion profile, and the luminosity function in two fields. We describe in particular those aspects of the evolution which distinguish this cluster from M4, which has a roughly similar mass and Galactocentric distance, but a qualitatively different surface brightness profile. Within the limitations of our modelling, we conclude that the most plausible explanation for the difference is fluctuations: both clusters are post-collapse objects, but sometimes have resolvable cores and sometimes not.
Giersz Mirek
Heggie Douglas C.
No associations
LandOfFree
Monte Carlo Simulations of Star Clusters - VI. The globular cluster NGC 6397 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 Monte Carlo Simulations of Star Clusters - VI. The globular cluster NGC 6397, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Monte Carlo Simulations of Star Clusters - VI. The globular cluster NGC 6397 will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-62954