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Paper: Modelling the Collision of Two Gas-Rich Galaxies
Volume: 230, Galaxy Disks and Disk Galaxies
Page: 471
Authors: Horellou, C.
Abstract: We use N-body hydrodynamical simulations to study the evolution of colliding pairs of model galaxies consisting of a halo and a disk containing stars and gas. Each galaxy is entirely self-gravitating. The gaseous component is represented by sticky particles that collide inelastically with each other and dissipate energy. The companion galaxy in these simulations is half as massive as the primary, and its disk is 75% smaller. Two types of collisions are considered: plunging collisions and coplanar, prograde encounters. The former induce ring waves in the primary as observed in ring galaxies like the well-known Cartwheel. Depending on its initial orientation, the companion can be largely disrupted and extended stellar and gaseous plumes can form. Coplanar, prograde encounters produce extended tidal features and can induce mass transfers from the companion to the primary.
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