Year: 2011
Type: article
Abstract: This paper investigates the star formation rate (SFR) in the solar neighbourhood. First, we build the local age distribution function (ADF) with an updated sample of 442 star clusters located at less than 1 kpc from the Sun. Next, we define the SFR, compute the individual mass evolution of a population of artificial clusters covering the broad range of parameters observed in actual clusters, and assume 100 M⊙ as the low-mass limit for effective cluster observation. This leads to a simulated ADF, which is compared to the low-noise solar neighbourhood ADF. The best match corresponds to a non-constant SFR presenting two conspicuous excesses for ages ≤9 Myr and between 220–600 Myr (the local starburst). The average SFR is , corresponding to the average surface SFR . These values are consistent with the SFR inferred from embedded clusters (ECs), but much lower (≲16 per cent) than that implied by field stars. Both the local starburst and the recent star formation period require to be described. The simulations show that 91.2 ± 2.7 per cent of the clusters created in the solar neighbourhood do not survive the first 10 Myr, which is consistent with the rate of EC dissolution.
Authors: C. Bonatto, E. Bica
Institution: Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul
Language: English
Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W1895780287