Melissa Enoch, Caltech

"Molecular Clouds and Star Formation: A Multi-wavelength Study of Perseus,
Serpens, and Ophiuchus"

Abstract:
The earliest phases of star formation are best observed at far-infrared to
millimeter wavelengths.  I will discuss the results from large-scale
Bolocam 1.1 mm surveys of Perseus, Ophiuchus, and Serpens, including the
mass and spatial distribution of dense millimeter cores, and implications
for the physical properties that control star formation. Combining the
millimeter data with Spitzer IRAC and MIPS maps from the c2d Legacy
Program allows us to separate starless cores from those with internal
luminosity sources, and to infer how formation of a central protostar
alters core properties.  I will use the resulting starless core sample to
compare the prestellar core mass function to the stellar initial mass
function.  Finally, I will compare protostellar classification methods,
utilizing Spitzer and Bolocam fluxes, and use the classifications to
estimate lifetimes for the prestellar and Class 0 phases.