Rapid Mass Segregation in Massive Star Clusters

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new dynamical mechanism that can rapidly cause mass segregation in large, homogeneous star clusters, providing insights into their formation from smaller clumps.

Contribution

It presents a novel dynamical process for rapid mass segregation applicable to large, homogeneous clusters, expanding understanding beyond previous models.

Findings

Mechanism operates in large, homogeneous, cool systems.

Potentially explains formation of large mass-segregated clusters from smaller clumps.

Offers an alternative to initial condition-dependent scenarios.

Abstract

Several dynamical scenarios have been proposed that can lead to prompt mass segregation on the crossing time scale of a young cluster. They generally rely on cool and/or clumpy initial conditions, and are most relevant to small systems. As a counterpoint, we present a novel dynamical mechanism that can operate in relatively large, homogeneous, cool or cold systems. This mechanism may be important in understanding the assembly of large mass-segregated clusters from smaller clumps.