Hayashi and the Thermal Physics of Star-Forming Clouds

TL;DR

This paper reviews Hayashi's foundational work on the thermal physics of star-forming clouds, discussing historical developments and recent advances in understanding stellar masses and first star formation.

Contribution

It provides a concise overview of the evolution of thermal physics models in star formation, emphasizing Hayashi's early diagrams and recent applications.

Findings

Temperature-density diagrams are crucial for understanding star formation.

Recent models link thermal physics to stellar mass determination.

Insights into the formation of the first stars are discussed.

Abstract

This brief historical review highlights the early work of Hayashi and his associates on the thermal physics of star-forming clouds, as summarized in the temperature-density diagrams first presented by this group. Some of the more recent developments in this subject, including its application to understanding stellar masses and to understanding the formation of the first stars, are also briefly reviewed.