Absorption line gradients in the spectrum of M32

Details Absorption line gradients in the spectrum of M32 Absorption line gradients in the spectrum of M32

Mar 1991

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1991aj....101..884d&link_type=abstract

Astronomical Journal (ISSN 0004-6256), vol. 101, March 1991, p. 884-891.

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Astronomy

32

Absorption Spectra, Elliptical Galaxies, Galactic Nuclei, Line Spectra, Spectrum Analysis, Andromeda Constellation, Dwarf Stars, Local Group (Astronomy), M Stars, Metallicity, Stellar Evolution

Scientific paper

Long-slit spectroscopic observations, spanning the wavelength range 4000-10,000 A, are presented of the Local Group compact elliptical galaxy M32. The data are used to investigate the spatial characteristics of 15 atomic and molecular features out to radial distances in excess of 20 arcsec from the nucleus. The significance of spectroscopic gradients is assessed using two statistical tests, and it is concluded that roughly half of the features considered in the current study systematically weaken with radius. A grid of model spectra is constructed to investigate the effects of variations in age and mass function exponent, and it is suggested that the observed gradients could be due to subtle radial variations in both mean metallicity and age, such that the nucleus of M32 contains stars which are younger and more metal-rich than those in the outer regions. The effects of combined metallicity and age gradients on the broadband radial colors of M32 are investigated, and it is predicted that, whereas only mild gradients, amounting to a few hundredths of a magnitude, are predicted in U-B and B-V, a much larger gradient, on the order of a few tenths of a magnitude should be present in V-K.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Absorption line gradients in the spectrum of M32 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 Absorption line gradients in the spectrum of M32, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Absorption line gradients in the spectrum of M32 will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1602144