The evolution of cluster X-ray sources: subcluster collisions

The evolution of cluster X-ray sources is investigated with a three-dimensional hydrodynamical numerical technique. Particular attention has been paid to the behaviour of intracluster gas during the merger of two subclusters to form a single cluster. Only a small enhancement is found in X-ray luminosity during the merger. The evolution of the X-ray luminosity subsequent to the merger is very similar to that found previously with a one-dimensional code. (author)