Globular Cluster Formation Triggered by the Initial Starburst in Galaxy Formation

Area of Science:

• Astrophysics and cosmology
• Star formation and evolution
• Galactic dynamics

Background:

• Globular clusters are ancient, dense star collections crucial for understanding galaxy evolution.
• Their formation mechanisms and radial distributions are key areas of astrophysical research.
• Galactic winds and supernova explosions significantly impact star formation within galaxies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and investigate a novel formation mechanism for globular clusters.
• To explain the observed extended radial distribution of globular clusters compared to stars.
• To reconcile theoretical models with existing observational data on globular cluster properties.

Main Methods:

• Developing a theoretical model for globular cluster formation.
• Simulating the dynamics of molecular clouds within galactic wind shocked regions.
• Analyzing the predicted radial distribution of clusters and comparing it with observational data.

Main Results:

• The proposed mechanism suggests globular clusters form in molecular clouds within galactic wind shocked regions.
• This formation process results in a more extended radial distribution for globular clusters than for stars.
• The model demonstrates consistency with available observational data on globular cluster properties.

Conclusions:

• Galactic winds driven by supernovae provide a viable environment for globular cluster formation.
• The proposed mechanism successfully explains the radial distribution of globular clusters.
• This model offers a new perspective on the early evolution of galaxies and star formation.