Theory of galaxy dynamics in clusters and groups

Abstract

Analytical estimates of the mass and radial dependence of the rates of galaxy mergers and of tidal interactions are derived for clusters and groups of galaxies, taking into account the tides from the system potential that limit the sizes of galaxies. Only high mass galaxies undergo significant major merging before being themselves cannibalized by more massive galaxies. Strong tides from the group/cluster potential severely limit the merger/tide cross-sections in the central regions, and while tides are most efficient at the periphery, one should see merging encounters further inside rich clusters.

Review at XVth IAP meeting on Galaxy Dynamics: from the Early Universe to the Present. Ed. F. Combes, G. A. Mamon & V. Charmandaris. 11 pages LaTeX2e using natbib, graphics (6 figures encapsulated). This version includes the correct page number

Cited by in corpus (6)

• Dark-matter-deficient dwarf galaxies form via tidal stripping of dark matter in interactions with massive companions
• Compact groups from the Millennium Simulations: I. Their Nature and the completeness of the Hickson sample
• Evidence of AGN feedback and sloshing in the X-ray luminous NGC 1550 galaxy group
• Suppressed radio emission in supercluster galaxies: enhanced ram pressure in merging clusters?
• A Fully General, Non-Perturbative Treatment of Impulsive Heating
• The properties and environment of very young galaxies in the local Universe