Speaker
Description
We investigate whether the stellar mass–spin relation of galaxies depends on environment, and whether any such dependence is direct or mediated through galaxy morphology, using the Simba cosmological simulations . We construct a well-defined galaxy sample at redshift zero and measure the relation between stellar mass and specific angular momentum, quantifying its slope, normalisation, and intrinsic scatter. Residuals from this relation are analysed to identify secondary correlations with galaxy size and star-formation activity. Galaxies are classified into early- and late type systems using a kinematic morphology indicator based on rotational support. Environment is characterised through local density, host halo mass, central–satellite status, and intra-halo position. We first examine the dependence of spin on environment without controls, and then perform controlled tests at fixed stellar mass and morphology to isolate direct environmental effects. By explicitly disentangling morphology–environment coupling, we determine whether environmental trends arise primarily through changes in galaxy type or reflect an independent influence on angular momentum. Robustness tests ensure numerical stability. The results place quantitative constraints on the role of environment in shaping galaxy angular momentum and assess whether a null environmental dependence is consistent with the data.
| Apply for student award at which level: | MSc |
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| Consent on use of personal information: Abstract Submission | Yes, I ACCEPT |