Center for Astrophysics Research and Technologies Seminar Series
Physical Conditions in Nearby Star Forming Galaxies
Presented by Mark Gorski (UNM)
I will present work probing the molecular gas in nearby star forming galaxies. Nearby galaxies provide the vital link between local galactic findings and global properties of star formation. As Giant Molecular Clouds (GMCs) collapse, stars form in dense cores. Feedback from young stars (YSOs) heats the surrounding material effectively stirring up the gas. This interplay has important consequences for star formation models. These models are sensitive to the temperatures and densities of the parent GMCs. It is possible to provide measurements of these properties through observations of molecular lines. We have observed four star forming galaxies with the VLA in K and Ka bands. These bands cover several ammonia inversion transitions in addition to the 22.3GHz water maser line. Ammonia is a known temperature probe and traces gas densities greater than 104 cm-3. Water masers are largely associated with star forming regions. The sample spans a range of star formation magnitudes and galactic environments. Through the study of star forming regions in these galaxies, I aim to provide meaningful constraints on SF models. I will present the first preliminary results of the sample.
2:00 pm, Thursday, September 4, 2014
PAIS-2540, PAIS
Individuals with disabilities who need an auxiliary aid or service to attend or participate in P&A events should contact the Physics Department (phone: 505-277-2616, email: physics@unm.edu) well in advance to ensure your needs are accomodated. Event handouts can be provided in alternative accessible formats upon request. Please contact the Physics front office if you need written information in an alternative format.
A schedule of talks within the Department of Physics and Astronomy is available on the P&A web site at http://physics.unm.edu/pandaweb/events/index.php