|
Recent JWST observations have unveiled a double-peak feature in the mass function of quiescent galaxies at high redshift (2.0 < z < 2.5). To explore the nature of these quiescent galaxies, we utilize the Meraxes semi-analytical galaxy-formation model. Our analysis reveals that active galactic nucleus feedback is the primary mechanism for quenching in massive quiescent galaxies. In contrast, less massive quiescent galaxies exhibit stochastic star formation histories characterized by oscillating star formation rates. Intriguingly, a similar pattern is also observed in star-forming galaxies. We quantify that, in the low-mass end, quiescent and star-forming galaxies may belong to a single population, differing only in their observed episodes of star formation activity. Our results highlight the importance of temporal variations in star formation rates in understanding the evolutionary pathways of galaxies. |
|