January 1, 1995
View Full PaperA theory for the initial mass function
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Abstract
Theoretical arguments are presented for the origin of the stellar initial mass function and for the characteristic mass of a protostar, in terms of the distribution of suprathermal linewidths in molecular clouds. The line widths are generated by protostellar outflows, which are also responsible for limiting the mass that is accreted by a forming star.
Cite This Study
Joseph Silk (Sun,) studied this question.