On the H I column density distribution of absorption systems of quasars

Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astronomy

Scientific paper

Rate now

  [ 0.00 ] – not rated yet Voters 0   Comments 0

Details

24

Absorption Spectra, Flux Density, Quasars, Stellar Spectra, Ultraviolet Radiation, Cosmology, Density Distribution, Lyman Spectra

Scientific paper

The observed distribution function of H I column densities in the absorption systems of quasars from N(HI) = 10 exp 13.5/sq cm (Lyman-alpha forest) through 10 exp 22/sq cm (damped Lyman-alpha systems) is well reproduced by considering the two-phase nature of intergalactic clouds confined by the gravity of cold dark matter, the so-called 'minihalos'. By the shielding effect of diffuse UV flux due to neutral hydrogen, the optically thick neutral core appears in a massive minihalo; this core is detected as high column density systems. The highly ionized outer envelope of a minihalo corresponds to a Lyman-alpha forest. If star formation occurs in the collapsing core and ionizes the surrounding gas, this should be detectable as metal-line systems. In this way, a unified picture of various absorption systems as minihalos with neutral cores emerges.

No associations

LandOfFree

Say what you really think

Search LandOfFree.com for scientists and scientific papers. Rate them and share your experience with other people.

Rating

On the H I column density distribution of absorption systems of quasars 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 On the H I column density distribution of absorption systems of quasars, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and On the H I column density distribution of absorption systems of quasars will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

     

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1382917

  Search
All data on this website is collected from public sources. Our data reflects the most accurate information available at the time of publication.