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TAPIR Seminar

Friday, January 26, 2024
2:00pm to 3:00pm
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Online and In-Person Event
Nature vs. Nurture: How internal and external processes shape galactic interiors
Francisco Mercado, NSF MPS Ascend Fellow, Theoretical and Computational Astrophysics, Pomona College,

In person: 370 Cahill. To Join via Zoom: 864 8902 5566

ABSTRACT: Even though galaxies are incredibly complex systems, they follow remarkably tight scaling relations (e.g. Tully-Fisher Relation, Mass-Metallicity Relation, etc.). These relations play a key role in linking the observable properties of galaxies to the intricate processes that shape them. In this talk I will discuss work in which I use high-resolution, cosmological simulations to untangle how internal factors (star formation) and external factors (environment) shape galactic interiors. I find that the varied dynamical effects of such processes on a galaxy can dictate its position on a given scaling relation. Understanding the connection between these dynamical effects and the resulting scaling relations provides us with a unique opportunity to use scaling relations as the basis for tests that assess our understanding of galaxy formation and dark matter physics.

For more information, please contact JoAnn Boyd by phone at 626-395-4280 or by email at joann@caltech.edu.