Abstract
view Abstract Citations (33) References (24) Co-Reads Similar Papers Volume Content Graphics Metrics Export Citation NASA/ADS Stability Aspects of a Family of Anisotropic Models of Elliptical Galaxies Bertin, G. ; Stiavelli, M. Abstract Previously we have used phase space properties of elliptical galaxies suggested by numerical experiments of dissipationless galaxy formation as a dynamical constraint in the construction of self-consistent equilibrium models (f_infinity_). These quasi-spherical models naturally lead to the R^1/4^ luminosity law if we assume that the mass to light ratio is approximately constant; the anisotropy f_infinity_-models have been actually found to perform better than the R^l/4^ law in a survey of eight ellipticals. In this article we test several aspects of stability of this approach. The overall dynamical stability of the f_infinity_-models is confirmed with the device of N-body simulations. Dynamical instability is only found in a region of parameter space where the models display unrealistic properties. Second, we show, again by N-body simulations, that the interesting properties of the f_infinity_-models are preserved in configurations with finite flattening (so that E2/E3 galaxies can be simulated). Finally we find that the approach displays good structural stability, i.e., we demonstrate that the general interesting properties of the f_infinity_-models reflect more the dynamical constraints assumed in their construction than its specific analytical implementation. Several features of the limiting models characterized by an infinitely deep central potential well are also briefly illustrated. Publication: The Astrophysical Journal Pub Date: March 1989 DOI: 10.1086/167230 Bibcode: 1989ApJ...338..723B Keywords: Astronomical Models; Elliptical Galaxies; Anisotropy; Distribution Functions; Galactic Structure; Many Body Problem; Mass Distribution; Mass To Light Ratios; Stability; Astrophysics; GALAXIES: STRUCTURE; INSTABILITIES full text sources ADS |
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 callDisclaimer: 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.
