Constraints on theories of galaxy formation from measurements of fluctuations in the CMB

Abstract

Current observational constraints on anisotropies in the CMB (Cosmic Microwave Background) and on the clustering of galaxies have considerably narrowed the range of acceptable models for galaxy formation. Observations of these anisotropies on intermediate and large angular scales provide the best constraint on the amplitude of very long wavelength density fluctuations. We present results from the Tenerife CMB fluctuation experiment (a Jodrell Bank-IAC collaboration) at intermediate angular scales (6 deg) which taken together with recently reported upper limits to fluctuations on small (arc min) angular scales constrain severely the spectral index of initial fluctuations in baryon dominated model universes. Constraints on adiabatic fluctuations in ‘hot’ and ‘cold’ dark matter models are also briefly discussed.