The Evolution of the Interstellar Medium Around Young Stellar Clusters

Abstract

The interplay between the ISM and the massive stars formed in clusters and, more generally, in recent events of star formation is reviewed via the global effects each has on the other. The pre-existing environment affects the properties of the massive stars, the duration of the star-forming event and could potentially affect the IMF. The collective effect of massive-star winds and supernova explosions creates a structured ISM by forming bubbles, supershells and, in more extreme cases, by inducing large-scale gas outflows. Gas/dust removal may quench star formation in young stellar clusters. Conversely, supernova-driven shocks may trigger star formation in molecular clouds surrounding the stellar clusters. Metal ejection from the massive stars is responsible for the pollution of the ISM and, if the metal-rich gas can escape the galaxy's gravitational potential, of the IGM. The environment where stellar clusters form is populated by a diffuse stellar population which contributes between 50% and 80% of the total UV light. The investigation of the nature of the diffuse UV light is the subject of a study employing HST STIS spectroscopy, whose preliminary results are presented and briefly discussed.