2022-02-25 Abstract
Title: Studying the formation and evolution of multiple protostellar systems
Speaker: Nadia Murillo (RIKEN)
Date: Feb 25 at 14:30
Location: R124, Physics Building
Abstract:
Multiple stellar systems are composed of two or more gravitationally bound stars. These systems are present throughout stellar evolution. Multiple stars are key in a wide range of phenomena, such as gravitational waves, supernovae, and cataclysmic variables. The stellar mass of each component in a multiple system can be directly
calculated from the orbits, and additional parameters such as stellar radius, density, and luminosity-mass relations can then be derived. Multiple stars are thus relevant in the cosmological context. During the star formation process, multiple protostellar system are observed to be present at all stages and mass ranges. While it is generally agreed that multiple protostars form through the fragmentation of cloud cores, there are still a lot of unanswered questions regarding their formation and evolution. Some of these questions include 1) when and how does fragmentation occur; 2) what factors influence fragmentation; 3) what conditions dictate the evolution of the system. In this talk I will present how I have addressed the above questions using observations at millimeter and submillimeter wavelengths combined with physico-chemical models. The results of my work indicate 1) fragmentation can continue to occur in cloud cores even after protostars have already formed; 2) mass is most likely the key factor in determining fragmentation and multiplicity; 3) the distribution of material among the components impacts the evolution of the system. I will also talk about how these results lead to the next questions in my research.
calculated from the orbits, and additional parameters such as stellar radius, density, and luminosity-mass relations can then be derived. Multiple stars are thus relevant in the cosmological context. During the star formation process, multiple protostellar system are observed to be present at all stages and mass ranges. While it is generally agreed that multiple protostars form through the fragmentation of cloud cores, there are still a lot of unanswered questions regarding their formation and evolution. Some of these questions include 1) when and how does fragmentation occur; 2) what factors influence fragmentation; 3) what conditions dictate the evolution of the system. In this talk I will present how I have addressed the above questions using observations at millimeter and submillimeter wavelengths combined with physico-chemical models. The results of my work indicate 1) fragmentation can continue to occur in cloud cores even after protostars have already formed; 2) mass is most likely the key factor in determining fragmentation and multiplicity; 3) the distribution of material among the components impacts the evolution of the system. I will also talk about how these results lead to the next questions in my research.