Initial mass function - power law

In summary, a user is seeking guidance on choosing a topic for a project in astrophysics and specifically asks about the reasons for the power law distribution of the Initial Mass Function (IMF). They also inquire about the length and recommended literature for this topic. Another user responds by noting the uncertain nature of the IMF and suggesting a review on its shape by Nate Bastian. They also mention the complex physics and chemistry involved in star formation, making it difficult to explain the power law distribution.
  • #1
dntsmzns
1
0
Hello, world :)

My first post here.

I have to choose a topic for a project in astrophysics. I intend to major in astronomy and it's my first year of studies, so I don't have much knowledge so far, though I don't mind picking a 'heavy' topic for this assignment - I know I'll benefit from this later.

One of the topics is:
Why (for what astrophysical reasons) the IMF obeys a power law?

Is it possible to answer this question in three to four pages?
Can you recommend some literature / papers on this topic?

Thank you very much. Glad to join you.
 
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  • #2
Wow, that's a risky one. I think nobody knows why (and if at all) the IMF is or should eb a power-law. At least at low masses, there is most probably a turn-over. A very nice, although long, review on the shape of the IMF is written by Nate Bastian recently:
http://arxiv.org/abs/1011.6512

What determines the shape of the IMF of course is hidden in the, for now rather obscure, physics and chemistry going on deep inside the cores of molecular clouds, where the actual star formation takes place.

I think a 3 or 4 page essay on the shape of the IMF could be very interesting, but explaining why it is a power law seems a little out of reach, I am afraid...
 

Related to Initial mass function - power law

1. What is the Initial Mass Function (IMF)?

The Initial Mass Function is a mathematical function that describes the distribution of masses for a group of newly formed stars. It is often represented as a power law, with a slope of -2.35, meaning that there are more low-mass stars than high-mass stars.

2. Why is the IMF important in astrophysics?

The IMF is important because it helps us understand the formation and evolution of galaxies. By studying the distribution of masses of stars in a galaxy, we can gain insights into the underlying physical processes that govern star formation and the overall structure of the galaxy.

3. How is the IMF determined?

The IMF is determined by analyzing the luminosity and mass of a large sample of stars in a particular region of a galaxy. By plotting the number of stars at different masses, a power law distribution can be derived and used to describe the IMF.

4. Are there any variations in the IMF?

While the IMF is generally described as a power law, there have been some variations observed in different regions of galaxies or in different types of galaxies. For example, some studies have found a flatter slope in regions with active star formation, indicating a higher proportion of high-mass stars.

5. How does the IMF affect the evolution of a galaxy?

The IMF plays a crucial role in the evolution of a galaxy because it determines the number and types of stars that are formed. A steeper IMF, with more low-mass stars, will result in a longer and slower evolution of a galaxy, while a flatter IMF, with more high-mass stars, will lead to a more rapid evolution.

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