The distribution of absorbing column densities among Seyfert 2 galaxies

Details The distribution of absorbing column densities among Seyfert 2 galaxies The distribution of absorbing column densities among Seyfert 2 galaxies

1999-02-26

arxiv.org/abs/astro-ph/9902377v1

Astrophys.J. 522 (1999) 157-164

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Astrophysics

16 LaTeX pages+5 postscript figures, accepted by ApJ

Scientific paper

10.1086/307623

We use hard X-ray data for an "optimal" sample of Seyfert 2 galaxies to derive the distribution of the gaseous absorbing column densities among obscured active nuclei in the local Universe. Of all Seyfert 2 galaxies in the sample, 75% are heavily obscured (N_H > 10^23 cm^-2) and about half are Compton thick (N_H > 10^24 cm^-2). Intermediate type 1.8-1.9 Seyferts are characterized by an average N_H much lower than "strict" Seyfert 2s. No correlation is found between N_H and the intrinsic luminosity of the nuclear source. This N_H distribution has important consequences for the synthesis of the cosmic X-ray background. Also, the large fraction of Compton thick objects implies that most of the obscuring gas is located within a radius of a few 10 pc from the nucleus.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

The distribution of absorbing column densities among Seyfert 2 galaxies 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 The distribution of absorbing column densities among Seyfert 2 galaxies, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and The distribution of absorbing column densities among Seyfert 2 galaxies will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-328417