Physics
Scientific paper
May 2006
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2006sptz.prop30836c&link_type=abstract
Spitzer Proposal ID #30836
Physics
Scientific paper
Star formation is fundamental to the evolution of galaxies. It can be simply described on global scales, but shows remarkable variation on local scales. Theoretical models describe numerous paths to star formation, from global gravitational instability to local formation dynamically triggered by cloudlet compression in superbubbles, compression by H II region expansion, and gas accumulation in the borders of supergiant shells. For a better understanding of star formation, one must empirically relate the initial level of gravitational instability, and any triggering mechanisms, to the final result. The Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) is the optimal site for such a study, as it is close enough to resolve protostars, yet not subject to the line-of-sight confusion of the Galaxy. Our Cycle 1 IRAC/MIPS observations of seven LMC HII complexes revealed a wide range of triggered star formation phenomena. The Spitzer survey of the LMC (SAGE), carried out in Cycle 2, reveals massive protostars throughout the entire LMC galaxy, allowing studies of global star formation. We propose to use the archival data from the Spitzer survey, and multi- wavelength surveys of stars and ISM in the LMC, to study star formation. We will examine both the interstellar conditions that lead to star formation, and the mass functions and clustering properties of protostars that are formed. For the former we will evaluate the gravitational potential from the stellar and gas surface densities; search for expanding shells that may be triggers; and examine the physical conditions in star formation sites. For the latter we will create a census of protostar candidates and their spatial distribution. Combined, these will allow us to determine the causes of star formation and how these affect the mass function and clustering properties of the stars formed.
Brandner Wolfgang
Calvet Nuria
Chen Rosie
Chu Y.-H. Y.-H.
Dickel John
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