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Spiral structure and star formation. I. Formation mechanisms and mean free paths

Journal Article · · Astrophys. J.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1086/161746· OSTI ID:6663048
We present a model of the interstellar medium (ISM) in spiral galaxies. The ISM is simulated by a system of particles, representing gas clouds. It is a probabilistic N-body system in which ''cloud'' particles orbit ballistically, undergo dissipative collisions with other clouds, and experience velocity-boosting interactions with expanding supernova remnants (SNRs). Associations of protostars may form in clouds following collisions or SNR interactions (thus allowing sequential star formation); these associations take finite times before becoming active and undergoing their own SN events.
Research Organization:
Department of Applied Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Virginia
OSTI ID:
6663048
Journal Information:
Astrophys. J.; (United States), Journal Name: Astrophys. J.; (United States) Vol. 277:2; ISSN ASJOA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English