Challenges in understanding the dynamical evolution of galaxies

Abstract

In this talk, I will discuss the dynamical transformation of galaxies across cosmic time. I will explore common barriers to and possible solutions for the accurate measurement and determination of the dynamical evolution of galaxies. I will focus on the necessity of changing dynamical probes / baryonic phases (neutral gas, ionised gas and stars) depending on the cosmic epoch or redshift.

In the first instance, I will discuss our attempt at quantifying and correcting for the impact of the progenitor bias with redshift using cosmological simulations. I will next address the implications of recent results on the dynamical coupling (or otherwise) of ionised gas and stars in galaxies on our ability to accurately infer dynamical evolution from observations at different epochs. Finally, I will outline how the Middle-Ages Galaxy Properties with Integral field spectroscopy (MAGPI) Survey was designed to explicitly overcome some of these barriers and show a selection of initial results.