What is the Estimated Local Star Formation Rate and How Accurate is it?

In summary, the estimated value of the local star formation rate is roughly 10 stars per year for the whole galaxy, based on a crude estimate of dividing the number of stars (OOM 10^11) by the age of the galaxy (OOM 10^10 years). However, this does not take into account galactic history or local conditions, which can greatly affect the rate. Estimates can also be made from H-balmer spectra or radio observations of star-forming clouds. These estimates are considered "order of magnitude" or rough estimates within a factor of ten.
  • #1
randa177
91
1
What is the estimated value of the local star formation rate (SFR) and how accurately do we know this number?
 
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  • #2
The crudest of estimates divides the number of stars in the galaxy, OOM 1011, by the OOM age of the galaxy, 1010 years, and concludes that roughly on average 10 stars per year are formed in the whole galaxy.

This, of course, does not take into account glactic history, which include star burst eras, or the local conditions, which may vary widely from ancient dust free globular star clusters, where there is virtually no star formation, to Giant Molecular Clouds such as the Orion nebula, where stars are observed today in the process of formation.

Garth
 
  • #3
what is OOM?
 
  • #4
Order Of Magnitude - also known as WAG (wild ass guess)

The sun is in a pretty quiet region - star formation is normally associated with hydrogen clouds.
You can estimate SFR from either H-balmer spectra from all the newly ionized hydrogen or from Radio obs of star forming clouds.
 
Last edited:
  • #5
randa177 said:
what is OOM?
Order Of Magnitude; a crude estimate in the 'ball park' as they say to within a factor of ten.

Garth
Edit: mgb_phys beat me to it!

Garth
 
  • #6
Thank you very much
 

1. What is a local star formation rate?

A local star formation rate refers to the rate at which new stars are forming in a specific region within a galaxy. This can vary depending on factors such as gas density, temperature, and gravitational forces.

2. How is the local star formation rate measured?

The local star formation rate can be measured by observing the emission of specific wavelengths of light, such as infrared or radio waves, from regions where stars are forming. Other methods such as counting the number of young stars in a given area can also be used.

3. What is the significance of studying the local star formation rate?

Studying the local star formation rate can provide insight into the evolution of galaxies and the formation of new stars. It also helps us understand the processes that drive star formation and the conditions necessary for it to occur.

4. How does the local star formation rate affect the formation of planets?

The local star formation rate plays a crucial role in the formation of planets. As new stars are formed, they also give rise to planets through the accretion of gas and dust in the surrounding protoplanetary disk. The rate at which stars form can influence the number and types of planets that form in a given region.

5. Can the local star formation rate change over time?

Yes, the local star formation rate can change over time. It is affected by various factors such as the availability of gas and the strength of gravitational forces. Additionally, the rate of star formation in a galaxy can vary depending on its stage of evolution.

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