Chemical enrichment refers to the process by which the chemical composition of a galaxy or interstellar medium is altered through the synthesis of new elements in stars and their subsequent distribution via stellar winds, supernovae, and other astrophysical processes. This process is crucial for the evolution of galaxies and the formation of planets, as it increases the abundance of heavy elements necessary for planet formation and complex chemistry.
Cosmic recycling refers to the process by which matter is continuously cycled through stars, interstellar space, and galaxies, contributing to the formation of new stars and planets. This ongoing cycle is driven by stellar processes such as nuclear fusion, supernovae, and the accretion of interstellar material, ensuring the dynamic evolution of the universe's chemical composition.
Infrared luminosity is a measure of the total energy output of an astronomical object in the infrared part of the electromagnetic spectrum, which is crucial for studying star formation and dust-enshrouded galaxies. It provides insights into the processes occurring in regions obscured by dust that are not visible in optical wavelengths, offering a more comprehensive understanding of cosmic phenomena.
The Chabrier IMF is a mathematical function that describes the distribution of stellar masses in a galaxy, particularly focusing on stars with masses similar to or less than that of the Sun. It is an important tool in astrophysics for understanding the formation and evolution of stars and galaxies, as it provides a more accurate representation of low-mass stars compared to the Salpeter IMF.
Schmidt Law, also known as the Kennicutt-Schmidt Law, describes the empirical relationship between the gas surface density and the star formation rate surface density in galaxies. It suggests that star formation is more efficient in regions with higher gas densities, playing a crucial role in understanding galactic evolution and star formation processes.
Star Formation Efficiency (SFE) is a measure of how effectively a galaxy or molecular cloud converts gas into stars, typically expressed as the fraction of gas mass that forms stars over a given time. Understanding SFE is crucial for comprehending the lifecycle of galaxies and the evolution of the universe, as it influences star formation rates and the distribution of stellar populations.
The Kroupa Initial Mass Function (IMF) is a mathematical distribution used to describe the initial mass distribution of a population of stars in a galaxy. It is a piecewise power-law function that provides a more accurate fit to observational data compared to the Salpeter IMF, especially at lower stellar masses.
Gas accretion refers to the process by which astronomical objects, such as stars and black holes, accumulate gas from their surroundings, leading to growth and changes in their properties. This process is fundamental in the formation and evolution of galaxies, as it influences star formation rates and the dynamics of galactic centers.