Dynamical Interactions in Dense Stellar Clusters

Abstract

This chapter reviews the dynamical processes in young stellar clusters. The accretion of gas by individual stars affects the dynamics of the cluster, and the masses of the stars. Dynamical mass segregation cannot explain the degree of mass segregation observed in clusters such as the Trapezium Cluster in Orion, implying that the location of the massive stars is an indication of where they formed. This can, however, be explained by the competitive accretion model. If most, if not all, stars form in binary systems, then the high proportion of pre-main sequence binary systems can evolve in clusters to the smaller proportion of Galactic field stars through binary-binary and binary-single interactions. These models make definite predictions for the distribution of binary properties. The early evolution of a cluster sensitively depends on the primordial binary star proportion. Close encounters between stars with circum-stellar discs have drastic effects on the discs and on the stellar orbits. The discs are truncated at radii comparable to the encounter peri-astron, limiting their lifetimes and affecting their potential for planet formation. If the gas represents a significant fraction of the total cluster mass, its removal on dynamical time-scales can unbind the cluster allowing the stars to escape and populate the field. (shortened)