On the origin of the globular cluster system of M87

Abstract

Photometric and numeric experimental results are presented, in relation to the elliptical galaxy M87 and its densely populated globular cluster system. Photometric effects on the mean integrated colors are estimated, and results and the required system of equations are presented. Numerical experiments are used to investigate the dynamical aspects of the capture process. M87 is favored in the capture process, as the relative velocity is smaller with respect to other galaxies than the relative velocities of other galaxies to each other. It is suggested by these investigations that globular cluster capture by massive galaxies did occur. Color differences may be indicative of capture efficiency if the capture mechanism was functioning.