On the nature of the blue light in central cluster galaxies

Details On the nature of the blue light in central cluster galaxies On the nature of the blue light in central cluster galaxies

Nov 1993

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1993mnras.265..431c&link_type=abstract

Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, vol. 265, p. 431

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Astrophysics

46

Elliptical Galaxies, Galactic Clusters, Star Formation, Stellar Color, Emission Spectra, Blue Stars, X Ray Astronomy, Cooling Flows (Astrophysics)

Scientific paper

An excess blue component of light, extended over the innermost few kpc, is observed in several central cluster galaxies. Using a combination of blue optical spectra and IUE data, we show that the spectrum of the excess blue light is consistent with both star formation dominated by the light of B5 stars, and power-law spectra with slopes between lambda exp -1.5 and lambda exp -2.5, even allowing for intrinsic reddening. If the blue continuum is emitted by stars, we find that the data are more consistent with a fading starburst model than with continuous star formation. We compare possible origins for the blue continuum, such as the scattering of a hidden active nucleus, or a starburst induced by either the radio jets or a subcluster merger. Scattering of nuclear light requires a significant beaming factor if due to hot electrons, while dust-scattering is more efficient. Observations necessary to discriminate between the competing theories are discussed. We note the similarities to the extended blue continuum in distant radio galaxies, and suggest that the origin of the blue light is common to both types of system.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

On the nature of the blue light in central cluster galaxies 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 nature of the blue light in central cluster galaxies, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and On the nature of the blue light in central cluster galaxies will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-811491