Very often molecular clouds between stars resemble elongated filaments that differ in size. It is believed that the fibrous structure plays a very important role in the process of the birth of stars at the stage where matter collapses and forms a protostar. Fibrous clouds can be noticed, because the inner dust blocks the optical light of background stars in infrared and submillimeter waves.
After observing some fibers, we found out that they themselves are bundles of densely placed filaments (galactic filaments), differing in physical parameters. Using computer simulation, it was possible to display such structures. Scientists agree that gas turbulence and gravitational collapse can cause the appearance of filaments and protostars. But the process itself remains a mystery.
Most often, the star-forming filament model is displayed in the form of a cylinder, whose density increases on the axis, repeating the profile of the sphere and leaving the length uniform. Astronomer Phil Myers has developed an option for a model where the filament has a starburst zone along the length in which the density and diameter are larger. It is noticeable that in different density profiles the gravitational “holes” also differ, which leads to different numbers of stars born inside. Myers was able to confirm his computer development with a real example. For this purpose, a filament in the constellation Mucha was used, indicating the model of the early evolutionary stage. The congestion in Southern Corona corresponds to the second model, where evolution took longer. And the third is responsible thread in Ophiuchus - the final stage. These three profiles allow you to consider all the conditions. Future research promises to reveal specific processes occurring in the zones of star formation.