Four-parameter fits to core mass functions using stable distributions demonstrate statistical differences between star forming regions

Abstract

We propose the use of the statistically well-founded Pareto-Levy family of Stable Distributions for the characterisation of the mass distributions of Stellar and Pre-stellar populations. Using Stable Distribution fits we demonstrate that the modal peaks and widths of the peaks for Core Mass Functions from Ophiuchus, Aquila and Orion are measurably different, width increasing with peak mass. The slopes of the high mass power laws are indistinguishable.