Abstract

ROZAS, M. A dynamical model for the spiral galaxy NGC 3359. Rev. mex. astron. astrofis [online]. 2008, vol.44, n.1, pp. 71-83. ISSN 0185-1101.

In this work we have determined a dynamical model for NGC 3359. This is a strongly barred spiral galaxy with a complex structure, within which we can see an annular zone of intense star formation. In this work we present self consistent numerical simulations of molecular gas in NGC 3359; and using the potential derived from an I band image, we attempt to find the parameters responsible for the kinematics and morphology of the observed gas. The best results are obtained for a two pattern speed model: the central region (up to 15") corresponding to the nuclear bar which rotates with a Ω_s=100 km s^-1 kpc^-1; and the main bar + outer spiral, decoupled from the nuclear region, which rotates with a angular velocity, Ω_p = 27 km s^-1 kpc^-1. The model successfully reproduces the complex structure in Hα of the galaxy in the internal 20" zone, which cannot really be explained with a unique mode pattern.

Keywords : galaxies: individual (NGC 3359); galaxies: kinematics and dynamics; galaxies: spiral.