The dynamical evolution of fractal star clusters: the survival of substructure

Details The dynamical evolution of fractal star clusters: the survival of substructure The dynamical evolution of fractal star clusters: the survival of substructure

2003-10-13

arxiv.org/abs/astro-ph/0310333v1

Astron.Astrophys. 413 (2004) 929-937

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Astrophysics

12 pages, 9 figures, A&A in press

Scientific paper

10.1051/0004-6361:20031529

We simulate the dynamics of fractal star clusters, in order to investigate the evolution of substructure in recently formed clusters. The velocity dispersion is found to be the key parameter determining the survival of substructure. In clusters with a low initial velocity dispersion, the ensuing collapse of the cluster tends to erase substructure, although some substructure may persist beyond the collapse phase. In clusters with virial ratios of 0.5 or higher, initial density substructure survives for several crossing times, in virtually all cases. Even an initially homogeneous cluster can develop substructure, if it is born with coherent velocity dispersion. These results suggest that the simple initial conditions used for many sophisticated $N$-body simulations could be missing a very important and dramatic phase of star cluster evolution.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

The dynamical evolution of fractal star clusters: the survival of substructure 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 The dynamical evolution of fractal star clusters: the survival of substructure, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and The dynamical evolution of fractal star clusters: the survival of substructure will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-639276