Star clusters stand at the intersection of much of modern astrophysics: the ISM, gravitational
dynamics, stellar evolution, and cosmology. Here, we review observations and theoretical
models for the formation, evolution, and eventual disruption of star clusters. Current literature
suggests a picture of this life cycle including the following several phases:▪ Clusters form in
hierarchically structured, accreting molecular clouds that convert gas into stars at a low rate
per dynamical time until feedback disperses the gas.▪ The densest parts of the hierarchy�…