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3. SIMPLE CHEMICAL EVOLUTION


3.1. Introduction

The topic of chemical evolution of galaxies tends to frighten off even the bravest of astronomers. Some of that can be attributed to uncertainties in abundances determinations (which I hoped that I have addressed above), but I think there is another factor. Most of us, once we have learned a little bit about the subject, acknowledge that there are a large number of factors which affect the chemical evolution of galaxies. This often gives rise to a reaction of surrender - after all, if there are so many free parameters, how can one possibly make progress? I would respond, if ones goals are modest, I think that there is a great deal of potential for progress. The purpose of this next section is to lay out some of the simplest ideas concerning chemical evolution.