Description
In this work, we analyze the nearby, spiral galaxy, NGC 3344. This particular galaxy is
interesting due to its extended UV disk (Padave et al. 2021). NGC 3344 was observed
using broadband optical imaging from the Large Binocular Telescope. We begin with a
photometric analysis of the stellar populations in the inner versus outer disk of the galaxy.
We then present the color as a function of galactocentric distance to infer the age gradient
in NGC 3344. We find a higher ratio of younger stars to older stars in the outer disk,
which indicates that NGC 3344 grows from the inside-out. Then, we use Code Investigating
GALaxy Emission (CIGALE) to model the star formation history of the galaxy. After testing
over 1,469,664 combinations of models, we conclude that NGC 3344 matches the pattern of
a constant star forming galaxy with a delayed burst episode. Based on the modeled star
formation rate, NGC 3344 experienced a 5% increase in star formation 50 million years ago.
This finding corroborates the presence of an extended UV (XUV) disk in the galaxy, which
could be tied to an accretion event of a spiral density wave. These results are very exciting,
and will be explored further in Padave et al. 2025 (in prep).
Details
Contributors
- Carl, Naomi (Author)
- Borthakur, Sanchayeeta (Thesis director)
- Jansen, Rolf (Committee member)
- Padave, Mansi (Committee member)
- Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor)
- School of Music, Dance and Theatre (Contributor)
- School of Earth and Space Exploration (Contributor)
- Department of Physics (Contributor)
Date Created
The date the item was original created (prior to any relationship with the ASU Digital Repositories.)
2025-05
Topical Subject