On the nature of compact groups of galaxies

Based on the spectroscopic survey of de Carvalho et al. (1997), we analyse the structural and dynamical properties of 17 Hickson Compact Groups (HCG). This analysis probes a region of 0.5 degrees x 0.5 degrees around each group and shows that most are part of larger structures. Our results also suggest that the Hickson sample is composed of different dynamical stages of the group's evolution. Specifically, we identify three possible evolutionary phases among groups in the sample: loose groups, [core+halo] systems and compact groups, each one presenting a distinct surface density profile. This sequence is consistent with the replenishment scenario for the formation and evolution of compact groups within larger and less dense systems.