Studying the orbits and interactions of satellites in the next generation of simulations

Rhys Jordan James Poulton

Research output: ThesisDoctoral Thesis

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Abstract

The goal of my thesis is to model the merging timescale of galaxies in N-body simulations and provide an analytical formula that can be applied in galaxy formation models. I assessed the algorithms used to identify and track simulated mergers using a new visualisation tool, the dendogram. I then quantified how merger timescales depend on galaxy orbits and compared to predictions from prescriptions in the literature. Finally, I used these insights to develop a new model for the merger timescale, showing how it improves on existing prescriptions, and explored its implications for predictions in the semi-analytical galaxy formation model, Shark.
Original languageEnglish
QualificationDoctor of Philosophy
Awarding Institution
  • The University of Western Australia
Supervisors/Advisors
  • Robotham, Aaron, Supervisor
  • Power, Chris, Supervisor
  • Elahi, Pascal, Supervisor
Thesis sponsors
Award date2 Aug 2020
DOIs
Publication statusUnpublished - 2020

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