Physics
Scientific paper
Feb 2007
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2007noao.prop..482h&link_type=abstract
NOAO Proposal ID #2007A-0482
Physics
Scientific paper
High-redshift quasars signal the birth of massive galaxies and the growth of their central super-massive black holes (SMBHs) across cosmic time. The elemental abundances near quasars provide unique constraints on models of SMBH-galaxy evolution and, e.g., on the role of quasars/AGN in regulating star formation and thus shaping the M_BH- M_gal relationship. Existing data suggest that quasar environments are metal rich, and therefore that young galactic nuclei undergo extensive star formation before the central quasars ``turn on" and the SMBHs are fully formed. However, most quasar abundance results are based on the broad emission lines (BELs). It is essential that we apply independent absorption line tests. Here we propose new abundance determinations using Keck/HIRESr observations of ``associated'' absorption lines (AALs) in bright quasars at z~ 2.5 to 3.5 (selected from the SDSS database). There are presently very few results like this available (none at z> 2.6) and, unlike previous studies, we will focus on weak AALs to avoid problems with line saturation. The HIRES spectra will also allow us to identify AALs that form very near the quasars (in galactic nuclei) versus farther out (in galactic halos). Combined with BEL data from the SDSS spectra, our observations will provide the first crude ``map" of metallicity versus location in quasar hosts. Finally, our novel focus on weak AALs will yield important new insights into the nature of quasar outflows and feedback in the surrounding galaxies.
Hamann Fred
Nestor Daniel
Rodriguez Hidalgo Paola
Simon Leah
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