The Structure and Evolution of Disk Galaxies

[摘要] The general theoretical framework for the formation and evolution of galaxies has been successful in explaining the basic properties of disk galaxies. However, many questions remain as to the detailed mechanisms by which the specific observed properties of galaxy disks are produced over cosmic time. In this thesis we focus on two specific aspects of disk galaxies in the local universe. First, we develop a model based on the idea that disks self-regulate to achieve a state of marginal dynamical stability. Our model allows us to successfully predict the gas surface mass density and star formation intensity of a galaxy given its rotation curve and stellar surface mass density.Second, we use very deep imaging from the Pan-STARRS1 survey to study the outer disks of galaxies. Our results imply that the simple ;;inside-out’ model for the evolution of disk galaxies needs to be modified to include the radial migration of stars and the suppression of star formation in the outer disk.

[发布机构] Johns Hopkins University

[效力级别] galaxies:formation

[关键词] galaxies:evolution;galaxies:formation;galaxies:general;galaxies:halos;galaxies:ISM;galaxies:kinematics and dynamics;galaxies:photometry;galaxies:spiral;galaxies:star formation;galaxies:structure;Physics