Numerical experiments on galaxy clustering in open universes

Abstract

Numerical studies were performed on the dynamical effects on the evolution of clumps, filaments, voids, and galaxy clusters by various final Omega values. The final Omega values examined ranged from 0.03-1, and attention was given to defining observations of superclusters which would aid in determining an actual value for Omega. The numerical trials consisted of n-body integration programs governed by the total expansion and final Omega value and included comparisons between results for open and closed universes. All runs started from the same initial conditions. The dispersion trajectories of particles and the final galactic cluster forms were found to be equivalent, regardless of the final Omega value. The possibility of deriving a value for Omega from velocity data on galaxies which have not yet joined clusters is discussed.