Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astronomy
Scientific paper
May 1994
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1994aj....107.1713f&link_type=abstract
The Astronomical Journal, vol. 107, no. 5, p. 1713-1716
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astronomy
6
Astronomical Models, Galactic Nuclei, Searching, Shell Galaxies, Star Formation, Stellar Mass Accretion, Charge Coupled Devices, Data Reduction, Images, Kinetic Friction, Northern Hemisphere, Southern Hemisphere, Telescopes
Scientific paper
We present the results of our search for secondary nuclei in shell galaxies. The most recent accretion model simulations of shell galaxy formation, by Salmon, Quinn, & Warren, have included the effects of dynamical friction and tidal stripping on a captured secondary for the first time. In their simulation, the secondary galaxy is disrupted slowly throughout the shell forming process, and should therefore be visible as a secondary nucleus for a significant fraction of the shell lifetime. We have obtained Charge Couple Device (CCD) images of 29 shell galaxies, often in two colors, in order to search for secondary nuclei. Identification of possible secondary nuclei was carried out by subtracting a smooth model of the primary elliptical and carefully examining the residual image. We found six galaxies with possible secondary nuclei that could be responsible for the shells within the framework of the Salmon, Quinn, & Warren (sinking satellite) accretion model. Foreground contamination by stars or galaxies implies that this detection is an upper limit. Based on our resutls, we estimate an upper limit of 200 Myr for the typical lifetime for a secondary nucleus and discuss the frequency of secondary nuclei expected from the weak interaction model and the major merger model.
Forbes Duncan A.
Groom Wendy
Thomson Robert C.
Williger Gerard. M.
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