MUNA Lunch Talk:

Rasmus Voss

Excellence Cluster Universe

Populations of LMXBs in nearby galaxies

November 3

12:10PM, Room 230, NRAO, Edgemont Road

Abstract:

Chandra observations of nearby galaxies make it possible to study statistical properties of the LMXBs, such as the spatial distribution and the luminosity function. Two distinct populations of LMXBs were known from the Milky Way: field LMXBs believed to be formed from primordial binaries and globular cluster LMXBs believed to be formed in dynamical encounters. Recent studies find the luminosity functions to be different with a clear lack of faint sources in the globular clusters. A third population of LMXBs has been found in the dense central regions of galaxies. Their spatial distribution indicates a dynamical origin and their luminosity function is consistent with the one of globular cluster LMXBs. Despite decades of study, both the formation and evolution of LMXBs are very poorly understood, especially in globular clusters where there are three possible formation channels. The Chandra observations provide useful constraints with the potential to significantly improve our understanding of LMXBs.