The Origin and Universality of the Stellar Initial Mass Function
Nov 26, 2014
3:30PM to 4:30PM
Date/Time
Date(s) - 26/11/2014
3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Title: The Origin and Universality of the Stellar Initial Mass Function
Speaker: Dr. Stella Offner
Institute: University of Massachussetts Amherst
Location: ABB 102
Description:
The stellar initial mass function (IMF) is a fundamental astrophysical quantity that impacts a wide range of astrophysical problems from heavy element distribution to planet formation to galaxy evolution. However, the shape and variance of the IMF are hotly debated both observationally and theoretically. I will briefly review observations; these suggest the IMF is surprisingly invariant across a broad range of environments. I will summarize current theoretical models for the origin of the IMF, including the relevant physics and various complicating factors. Finally, I will discuss what can be learned about the IMF from numerical simulations of star formation.