Are the globular clusters with significant internal [Fe/H] spreads all former dwarf galaxy nuclei?

TL;DR

This paper discusses the hypothesis that globular clusters with significant internal [Fe/H] spreads are remnants of dwarf galaxy nuclei, examining evidence and considering implications for their origins.

Contribution

It evaluates the plausibility of globular clusters with [Fe/H] spreads being former dwarf galaxy nuclei, based on multiple lines of observational evidence.

Findings

The hypothesis is plausible based on metallicity distributions and structural features.

Current evidence supports the idea but is limited to nine known clusters.

Further discoveries could challenge or refine this hypothesis.

Abstract

In this contribution the hypothesis that the Galactic globular clusters with substantial internal [Fe/H] abundance ranges are the former nuclei of disrupted dwarf galaxies is discussed. Evidence considered includes the form of the metallicity distribution function, the occurrence of large diffuse outer envelopes in cluster density profiles, and the presence of ([s-process/Fe], [Fe/H]) correlations. The hypothesis is shown to be plausible but with the caveat that if significantly more than the current nine clusters known to have [Fe/H] spreads are found, then re-evaluation will be required.