Kinematic Constraints on Dwarf Galaxy Evolution

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AST-0506054Van ZeeDwarf galaxies are the building blocks of large galaxies and the most numerous galaxy type in the local Universe, and are therefore key constituents that provide unique insight into galaxy formation and evolution. This project is a comprehensive study of gaseous and stellar dynamics in low mass galaxies, to examine kinematic constraints on morphological evolution between the different dwarf galaxy classes, because it has been hypothesized that these classes simply represent different evolutionary states. The observations will exploit a relatively unexplored region of parameter space to investigate the feasibility of passive morphological transformation, specifically considering whether angular momentum regulates star formation activity, the role of environment in the initiation of a starburst phase, and the connection between low redshift dwarf galaxies and the rapidly evolving population of faint blue galaxies at intermediate redshift.This program will have a broad impact by advancing discovery while promoting teaching, training, and learning. A lot of the work will be carried out by graduate and undergraduate students as independent research projects, and the data will be incorporated into the classroom for intermediate level astronomy courses.