Evolution of galaxies due to self-excitation

Abstract

These lectures will cover methods for studying the evolution of galaxies since their formation. Because the properties of a galaxy depend on its history, an understanding of galaxy evolution requires that we understand the dynamical interplay between all components over 10 gigayears. For example, lopsided (m = 1) asymmetries are transient with gigayear time scales, bars may grow slowly or suddenly and, under circumstances may decay as well. Recent work shows that stellar populations depend on asymmetry.