Satellite galaxies lose gas but do not always stop forming stars
In short: A review of observational data on satellite galaxies found that while these smaller galaxies frequently lose their cold gas reservoirs to their surroundings, this process does not immediately halt star formation. The researchers observed that stripping is common in both small groups and large clusters of galaxies.
The study highlights a complex environment where multiple physical mechanisms, such as ram pressure, act simultaneously on galaxies. Crucially, the review suggests that because only part of a galaxy's gas might be removed during its first close pass to a larger mass, stripping alone is not always enough to completely shut down new star production.
This analysis relies on existing observational evidence from the local Universe and faces limitations in separating overlapping physical processes.
Why it matters: Understanding how galaxies die requires looking at the complex interplay between gas loss and internal processes.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Research: Cortese et al. (2021). The Dawes Review 9: The role of cold gas stripping on the star formation quenching of satellite galaxies. Publications of the Astronomical Society of Australia.
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/space-research-satellite-galaxies-lose-gas-but-do-not-always-stop-forming-s.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Astronomy · More in Space · Latest · A–Z · All topics
