Abstract

AbstractWe use images derived from collapsing, turbulent molecular cloud simulations without sinks to explore the effects of finite image angular resolution and noise on the derived clump mass function. These effects randomly perturb the clump masses, producing a lognormal clump mass function with a Salpeter-like high mass end. We show that the characteristic break mass of the simulated clump mass functions changes with the angular resolution of the images in a way that is entirely consistent with the observations. We also present some cautionary tales regarding sink particles and highlight the need to ensure that sinks actually correspond to distinct collapsing objects. We test several popular numerical sink criteria in the literature and compare to converged, non-sink results.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.