Other
Scientific paper
Feb 2010
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2010noao.prop..109b&link_type=abstract
NOAO Proposal ID #2010A-0109
Other
Scientific paper
While galactocentric radial abundance gradients in spiral galaxies have been studied for a long time, virtually nothing is known about the existence of azimuthal variations of the present-day metallicity. Theory predicts a very small (<0.05 dex) effect, but very few observations of extragalactic H II regions and Galactic stars suggest otherwise, with changes up to 0.3 dex over distances of a few kpc. Using the most accurate H II region abundance diagnostics, based on the detection of the O IIIlin4363 auroral line, it is possible to test for the presence of azimuthal gradients in spiral disks. This has natural implications for models of the chemical evolution of galaxies, which currently assume instantaneous recycling of stellar-processed material ejected by winds and SN explosions, and to verify the impact of accretion on the chemical evolution of disks. The grand-design spiral galaxy M101, with its well studied radial abundance gradient extending over a factor of 10 in O/H, and the likely accretion of cold gas from its surroundings, is well suited for this test.
Bresolin Fabio
Kennicutt Robert C.
No associations
LandOfFree
Testing for azimuthal abundance gradients in spiral galaxies: M101 does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Testing for azimuthal abundance gradients in spiral galaxies: M101, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Testing for azimuthal abundance gradients in spiral galaxies: M101 will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1106076