Dynamical evolution of two associated galactic bars

TL;DR

This paper models the secular dynamical evolution of two interacting galactic bars, analyzing their oscillatory behavior and deformation under mutual gravitational forces using analytical and numerical methods.

Contribution

It provides an analytical framework for understanding the mutual gravitational interaction and deformation of two galactic bars, including cases with and without geometrical deformation.

Findings

Rigid bars exhibit harmonic oscillations.

Deformable bars change shape and rotation to escape gravitational influence.

Mutual interactions can lead to complex oscillatory and deformation behaviors.

Abstract

We study the dynamical interactions of mass systems in equilibrium under their own gravity that mutually exert and experience gravitational forces. The method we employ is to model the dynamical evolution of two isolated bars, hosted within the same galactic system, under their mutual gravitational interaction. In this study we present an analytical treatment of the secular evolution of two bars that oscillate with respect one another. Two cases of interaction, with and without geometrical deformation, are discussed. In the latter case, the bars are described as modified Jacobi ellipsoids. These triaxial systems are formed by a rotating fluid mass in gravitational equilibrium with its own rotational velocity and the gravitational field of the other bar. The governing equation for the variation of their relative angular separation is then numerically integrated, which also provides the time evolution of the geometrical parameters of the bodies. The case of rigid, non-deformable, bars produces in some cases an oscillatory motion in the bodies similar to that of a harmonic oscillator. For the other case, a deformable rotating body that can be represented by a modified Jacobi ellipsoid under the influence of an exterior massive body will change its rotational velocity to escape from the attracting body, just as if the gravitational torque exerted by the exterior body were of opposite sign. Instead, the exchange of angular momentum will cause the Jacobian body to modify its geometry by enlarging its long axis, located in the plane of rotation, thus decreasing its axial ratios.