Implications of Eccentric Observations on Binary Black Hole Formation Channels

Orbital eccentricity is one of the most robust discriminators for distinguishing between dynamical and isolated formation scenarios binary black hole mergers using gravitational-wave observatories such as LIGO Virgo. Using state-of-the-art cluster models, we show how selection effects impact detectable distribution eccentric from clusters. We that observation (or lack thereof) can significantly constrain fraction systems originate environments, dense star After roughly 150 observations, observing no signals would indicate clusters cannot make up majority merging population in local universe (95% credibility). However, if dominate rate a single system confirmed to be measurably first second transient catalogs, must account at least 14% mergers. The constraints on become tighter number observations grows will constrained within 0.5 dex once 10 holes are observed.