Bachelor thesis defense by Albert Bjerregård Sneppen

Abstract:

In this thesis we will present evidence of systematic variations of the stellar initial mass function from photometric observations of ensembles of galaxies. These variations are interpreted in the context of theoretical predictions of how the temperature of star-forming clouds influences the IMF. We will show that these inferred gas temperatures follow predictions of stellar population feedback and observed dust temperatures. Additionally, we will prove that the spectral features associated with a variable IMF indeed differ between galaxies fitted at different gas temperatures by stacked photometry. Finally, the implications of a variable IMF on other galactic properties will be examined and perspectives for future research outlined.

Supervisor
Charles L. Steinhardt, Niels Bohr Insitute, DAWN

Censor
Hans Kjeldsen, Aarhus University