DYNAMICAL MASS SEGREGATION ON A VERY SHORT TIMESCALE
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S3 7RH (United Kingdom)
We discuss the observations and theory of star cluster formation to argue that clusters form dynamically cool (subvirial) and with substructure. We then perform an ensemble of simulations of cool, clumpy (fractal) clusters and show that they often dynamically mass segregate on timescales far shorter than expected from simple models. The mass segregation comes about through the production of a short-lived, but very dense core. This shows that in clusters like the Orion Nebula Cluster the stars {>=} 4 M{sub sun} can dynamically mass segregate within the current age of the cluster. Therefore, the observed mass segregation in apparently dynamically young clusters need not be primordial, but could be the result of rapid and violent early dynamical evolution.
- OSTI ID:
- 21313814
- Journal Information:
- Astrophysical Journal (Online), Vol. 700, Issue 2; Other Information: DOI: 10.1088/0004-637X/700/2/L99; Country of input: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); ISSN 1538-4357
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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