Test computations on the dynamical evolution of star clusters

Test calculations have been carried out on the evolution of star clusters using the fluiddynamical method devised by Larson (1970a). Large systems of stars have been considered with specific concern with globular clusters. With reference to the analogous standard model by Larson, the influence of varying in turn the various free parameters (cluster mass, star mass, tidal radius, mass concentration of the initial model) has been studied for the results. Furthermore, the partial release of some simplifying assumptions with regard to the relaxation time and distribution of the target stars has been considered. The change of the structural properties is discussed, and the variation of the evolutionary time scale is outlined. An indicative agreement of the results obtained here with structural properties of globular clusters as deduced from previous theoretical models is pointed out.