Interlaced dynamics of density waves and vortices in self-gravitating Discs

Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences, Tbilisi State University, Il. Chavchavadze ave. 3, Tbilisi 0179, Georgia

^a e-mail: george.mamatsashvili@tsu.ge

Abstract

Latest developments in the dynamics of density waves and vortices in selfgravitating protoplanetary discs is reviewed. It is well established by now that in discs, vortices are dynamically coupled with density waves due to the disc’s differential rotation, or shear. On the other hand, density waves play a central role in the theory of self-gravitating discs and recently revealed their coupling with vortices implies that the latter can also be subject to self-gravity effects, thus taking active part in defining overall dynamics of self-gravitating discs. We describe the specific features of vortex dynamics and evolution in self-gravitating discs with and without driving by baroclinic or Rossby wave instabilities and point out differences between these two case.