Shell Galaxies, Dynamical Friction, and Dwarf Disruption

Abstract

Using N-body simulations of shell galaxies created in nearly radial minor mergers, we investigate the error of collision dating, resulting from the neglect of dynamical friction and of gradual disruption of the cannibalized dwarf.

1 page, 1 figure, to be published in the proceedings of the conference "Galaxies in Isolation: Exploring Nature vs. Nurture" (12-15 May 2009; Granada, Spain)