Modes of Star Formation in the Galaxy

A classic problem in star formation is whether there are
distinct modes of star formation in our galaxy - such as
clustered and isolated star formation - driven by distinct physical
processes. I will present a search for such modes  using three
approaches: 1.) comparisons of the  spatial distribution of YSOs in nearby
clouds  mapped by Spitzer, 2.) examinations of the properties of
protostars as a function of stellar density, and 3.) analysis of the
density of massive stars both  in nearby associations  and in
rich super clusters.