Mathematics
Scientific paper
Feb 1999
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1999nodo.book.....r&link_type=abstract
N-body-simulations on the dynamics of open star clusters., by Reffert, H.. Heidelberg Univ. (Germany). Naturwissenschaftlich-Ma
Mathematics
Scientific paper
Open clusters have median lifetimes of the order of 2×108 years. These lifetimes depend on internal and external dynamics, namely gravitational interaction of member stars, the galactic tidal field, passing molecular clouds and mass loss due to stellar evolution. Direct N-body simulations are used to determine lifetimes of open clusters, varying macroscopic cluster parameters like radius, total mass and mass-function. First, the effect of molecular clouds is investigated. Predictions of analytical theories will be compared to results of N-body simulations in order to test the validity of the theories. Then, more realistic N-body simulations with open star cluster under influence of the tidal field of the Milky Way are conducted, using a new method to determine escaping stars. These derived lifetimes are compared with results of previous N-body simulations and the observed age distribution of open clusters. In the case of an isolated cluster a much larger timescale is found for the dissolution of the system than the one predicted by the theory. The lifetimes of open clusters in the galactic tidal field depends only weakly on the mass-function and the use of stationary initial conditions. The only dependency of cluster lifetimes is on N, the number of member stars.
No associations
LandOfFree
N-body-simulations on the dynamics of open star clusters. 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 N-body-simulations on the dynamics of open star clusters., we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and N-body-simulations on the dynamics of open star clusters. will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-948884