Evolution of compact groups and the formation of elliptical galaxies

The dynamical evolution of gravitationally bound groups of galaxies should account for some of the objects seen in the Universe. A numerical simulation of the merging of a compact group shows that the process may result in the formation of bright ellip-tical galaxies. If compact groups are interpreted as transient phases in the dynamical evolution of looser groups, the merger remnants they leave behind exemplify galaxy formation at the present epoch.

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