Extended X-ray emission around 4C 41.17 at z=3.8

Details Extended X-ray emission around 4C 41.17 at z=3.8 Extended X-ray emission around 4C 41.17 at z=3.8

2003-06-16

arxiv.org/abs/astro-ph/0306314v1

Astrophys.J. 596 (2003) 105-113

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Astrophysics

26 pages, 6 Postscript Figures, Accepted ApJ Main Journal

Scientific paper

10.1086/377531

We present sensitive, high-resolution, X-ray imaging from Chandra of the high-redshift radio galaxy 4C 41.17 (z=3.8). Our 150-ks Chandra exposure detects strong X-ray emission from a point source coincident with the nucleus of the radio galaxy. In addition we identify extended X-ray emission with a luminosity ~1e45 erg/s covering a 100kpc (15'') diameter region around the radio galaxy. The extended X-ray emission follows the general distribution of radio emission in the radio lobes of this source, and the distribution of a giant Lyman-alpha emission line halo, while the spectrum of the X-ray emission is non-thermal and has a power law index consistent with that of the radio synchrotron. We conclude that the X-ray emission is most likely Inverse-Compton scattering of far-infrared photons from a relativistic electron population probably associated with past and current activity from the central object. Assuming an equipartition magnetic field the CMB energy density at z=3.8 can only account for at most 40% of the Inverse-Compton emission. Published submillimeter maps of 4C 41.17 have detected an apparently extended and extremely luminous far-infrared emission around the radio galaxy. We demonstrate that this photon component and its spatial distribution, in combination with the CMB can reproduce the observed X-ray luminosity. We propose that photo-ionization by these Inverse-Compton X-ray photons plays a significant role in this system, and provides a new physical feedback mechanism to preferentially affect the gas within the most massive halos at high redshift. This is the highest redshift example of extended X-ray emission around a radio galaxy currently known. (Abridged)

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Extended X-ray emission around 4C 41.17 at z=3.8 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 Extended X-ray emission around 4C 41.17 at z=3.8, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Extended X-ray emission around 4C 41.17 at z=3.8 will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-674717