The Spatial Distribution Function of Galaxies at High Redshift

TL;DR

This study investigates the distribution of galaxies at high redshifts (z > 0.1) using GOODS Catalogs, finding that their spatial distribution aligns with predictions from gravitational quasi-equilibrium dynamics, thus informing galaxy evolution models.

Contribution

First to analyze galaxy distribution functions at redshifts above 0.1, confirming the gravitational quasi-equilibrium model at these early cosmic times.

Findings

Galaxy distribution function matches gravitational quasi-equilibrium predictions

Clustering observed in redshift bands 0.47-0.8 and 0.9-1.5

Results constrain galaxy merging and dark matter roles

Abstract

This is the first exploration of the galaxy distribution function at redshifts greater than about 0.1. Redshifts are based on the North and South GOODS Catalogs. In each catalog we examine clustering in the two redshift bands 0.47 < z < 0.8 and 0.9 < z < 1.5. The mean redshifts of the samples in these bands are about 0.6 and 1.1. Our main result is that at these redshifts the galaxy spatial distribution function f_V(N) has the form predicted by gravitational quasi-equilibrium dynamics for cosmological many-body systems. This constrains related processes such as galaxy merging and the role of dark matter in the range of these redshifts.