In this paper, we combine the stellar spectral synthesis code STARBURST 99,
the nebular modelling code MAPPINGS IIIq, a 1-D dynamical evolution model of
\HII regions around massive clusters of young stars and a simplified model of
synchrotron emissivity to produce purely theoretical self-consistent synthetic
spectral energy distributions (SEDs) for (solar metallicity) starbursts lasting
some 108 years. These SEDs extend from the Lyman Limit to beyond 21 cm. We
find that two ISM parameters control the form of the SED; the pressure in the
diffuse phase of the ISM (or, equivalently, its density), and the molecular
cloud dissipation timescale. We present detailed SED fits to Arp 220 and NGC
6240, and we give the predicted colors for starburst galaxies derived from our
models for the IRAS and the Spitzer Space Observatory MIPS and IRAC
instruments. Our models reproduce the spread in observed colors of starburst
galaxies. Finally, we present absolute calibrations to convert observed fluxes
into star formation rates in the UV (GALEX), at optical wavelengths
(Hα), and in the IR (IRAS or the Spitzer Space Observatory). (Abstract
Truncated)Comment: 56 pages, 16 figures, accepted by The Apstrophysical Journal For
version with full, colour figures go to
http://www.mso.anu.edu.au/~bgroves/starburst