Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
Mar 1997
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1997aipc..402..477t&link_type=abstract
Astrophysical implications of the laboratory study of presolar materials. AIP Conference Proceedings, Volume 402, pp. 477-505 (
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
5
Molecular Clouds, H2 Clouds, Dense Clouds, And Dark Clouds, Molecular And Chemical Processes And Interactions
Scientific paper
After a summary of the known phases of the ISM, a description is given of the hierarchy of molecular structures from the lowest to the highest densities (largest to smallest size scales). Despite the self-gravitating nature of nearly all molecular clouds, they do not collapse rapidly. Mechanisms of support (internal pressure), and the reasons for equipartition of kinematic, magnetic and gravitational energy densities are discussed. Then we procede to descriptions of (i) scaling laws for density, size, and velocity dispersion, and their physical reasons; (ii) ages of the various molecular entities; (iii) low-mass and massive star formation. We conclude with a description of the origin of molecular clouds, from the thermal instability that converts warm HI gas to cold HI gas, through the conversion of cold HI gas to diffuse molecular gas, and finally the transformation of the latter to molecular clouds of all sizes, via random collision buildup, the magnetic Rayleigh-Taylor instability, and gravitational instabilities on all scales.
No associations
LandOfFree
The nature of molecular clouds 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 nature of molecular clouds, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and The nature of molecular clouds will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1858444