A dwarf-dwarf merger and dark matter core as a solution to the Globular Cluster problems in the Fornax dSph

TL;DR

This paper proposes that a past dwarf-dwarf merger and a dark matter core in Fornax explain the survival and distribution of its globular clusters, resolving longstanding dynamical and chemical puzzles.

Contribution

It introduces a semi-analytic model incorporating merger effects and dark matter core formation to explain globular cluster survival and properties in Fornax.

Findings

A dark matter core > 1.5 kpc is needed for GC survival.

A dwarf merger with mass ratio 1:5 to 1:2 explains cluster positions.

Chemical signatures support a merger origin for some clusters.

Abstract

The five globular clusters (GCs) of the Fornax dSph are puzzling for two reasons; the mass in GCs is high with respect to the galaxy's old stellar mass, and their survival and large distance (> 1 kpc) is at odds with naive expectations of dynamical friction. We present here a semi-analytic model, simultaneously addressing both problems in a comprehensive evolutionary framework for Fornax. Key to the model is inclusion of: 1) hydrodynamical constraints on the GC formation locations, 2) self-consistent velocity distribution functions in the dynamical friction calculations and 3) expansion of GC orbits due to a past dwarf-dwarf merger in the orbit integrations. The latter is crucial for reconciling the dynamical survival of the clusters, and their chemical properties with respect to the Fornax field stars. We find that in order for four of the GCs to survive at their observed projected location, a dark matter core of radius > 1.5 kpc and a dwarf merger with dynamical mass ratio of 1:5 to 1:2 with Fornax is required. We support the merger scenario by showing that aspects of the field star metallicity distribution function and anomalous chemical properties of GC5, are representative of a merging galaxy which is ~1/3 less massive than Fornax. Together the chemical and dynamical models suggest a scenario where three in-situ GCs in proto-Fornax were ejected to the outskirts during the merger, a GC4 formed during the merger at about 10 Gyrs ago, with GC5 being brought in by the merging galaxy to Fornax.