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Comparison of measured spiral arm properties with model predictions

Journal Article · · Astrophys. J.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1086/159614· OSTI ID:5169411
We present measurements of the morphological properties of the spiral arms in a sample of 17 galaxies for which density wave and stochastic theory predictions are available. For both models crude correlations of predicted and observed arm properties are apparent along the Hubble sequence. In detail, however, the agreement is poor for both models. Arm pitch and arm widths are at least as well correlated with the rotational velocities of the galaxies, independent of the model. This sugggests that the trends in spiral structure observed along the Hubble sequence may be largely kinematic in origin.
Research Organization:
Mount Wilson and Las Campanas Observations; and Department of Astronomy, University of Minnesota
OSTI ID:
5169411
Journal Information:
Astrophys. J.; (United States), Journal Name: Astrophys. J.; (United States) Vol. 253:1; ISSN ASJOA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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