Response of a Disk Galaxy to a Satellite Galaxy in Elliptical Orbit

Abstract

We use a 2-dimensional self consistent N-body simulation code in order to investigate the evolution of spiral structure in a disk galaxy caused by one small companion galaxy orbiting in elliptical orbit around the main disk galaxy. In all cases one can see spiral arms forming in the disk of the main galaxy. Our numerical results suggest that there is a connection between the shape of the spiral arms and the eccentricity of the companion's orbit. We also examine the maximum density distribution on the spiral arms and the influence of the companion on the velocity RMS of the stars that form the disk of the main galaxy.