Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
2005-12-15
Astrophys.J.641:795-800,2006
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
19 pages, 4 figures, accepted for publication in ApJ
Scientific paper
10.1086/500529
Archival observations of 18 starburst galaxies that span a wide range in metallicity reveal for the first time a correlation between the ratio of emission line fluxes of [FeII] at 26 microns and [NeII] at 12.8 microns and the 7.7 micron PAH strength, with the [FeII]/[NeII] flux ratio decreasing with increasing PAH strength. We also find a strong correlation between the [FeII]/[NeII] flux ratio and the host galaxy metallicity, with the flux ratio decreasing with increasing metallicity. Since [FeII] emission has been linked primarily to supernova shocks, we attribute the high [FeII]/[NeII] ratios in low-metallicity galaxies to enhanced supernova activity. We consider this to be a dominant mechanism for PAH destruction, rather than grain destruction in photoionized regions surrounding young massive stars. We also consider whether the extreme youth of the low-metallicity galaxies is responsible for the lack of PAH emission.
Dudik Rachel P.
O'Halloran Brian
Satyapal Shobita
No associations
LandOfFree
The PAH Emission Deficit In Low-Metallicity Galaxies - A Spitzer View 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 PAH Emission Deficit In Low-Metallicity Galaxies - A Spitzer View, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and The PAH Emission Deficit In Low-Metallicity Galaxies - A Spitzer View will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-167714