TAPIR Seminar

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.