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Fluffy molecular clouds formed stars in the early universe
- Stars form in Giant Molecular Clouds (GMCs), vast clouds of mostly hydrogen, spanning tens of light years, where thousands of stars can form.
- The early Universe lacked elements heavier than hydrogen and helium, affecting star formation due to low metallicity.
- Research focused on star formation in low-metallicity environments, like the Small Magellanic Cloud.
- ALMA observations in the Small Magellanic Cloud showed that 60% of molecular clouds had filamentary structures, while 40% had a 'fluffy' shape.
- Temperature variations between filamentary and fluffy clouds suggest different star formation processes.
- Cloud morphology indicates evolutionary stages and potential for forming planetary systems.
- Filamentary clouds are associated with younger stars and outflows, while fluffy clouds show different temperature distributions.
- Evolutionary differences in cloud structures and temperatures are unique to low-metallicity environments.
- The study highlights the importance of heavy elements in maintaining filamentary structures for star formation, impacting planetary system formation.
- Future research aims to explore the role of turbulence, magnetic fields, and radiative feedback in filament formation and star evolution.
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