Influence of protostellar outflows on star and protoplanetary disk formation in a massive star-forming clump

Abstract

Context. Due to the presence of magnetic fields, protostellar jets or outflows are a natural consequence of accretion onto protostars. They are expected to play an important role for star and protoplanetary disk formation. Aims. We aim to determine the influence of outflows on star and protoplanetary disk formation in star forming clumps. Methods. Using RAMSES, we perform the first magnetohydrodynamics calculation of massive star-forming clumps with ambipolar diffusion, radiative transfer including the radiative feedback of protostars and protostellar outflows while systematically resolving the disk scales. We compare it to a model without outflows. Results. We find that protostellar outflows have a significant impact on both star and disk formation. They provide additional turbulent and magnetic support to the clump, with typical velocities of a few 10 km/s, impact the disk temperatures, and reduce the accretion rate onto the protostars. While they promote a more numerous stellar population, we do not find that they control the mass scale of the stellar IMF. We find, however, that they have an influence on the high-mass end and the shape of the stellar IMF. Conclusions. Protostellar outflows appear to have a significant influence on both star and disk formation and should therefore be included in realistic simulations of star-forming environments.Comment: Submitted at A&A as a letter to the Editor; Comments are welcom