A new class of galaxy models with a central BH – I. The spherical case

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe dynamical properties of spherically symmetric galaxy models, where a Jaffe stellar density profile is embedded in a total mass density decreasing as r−3 at large radii, are presented. The orbital structure of the stellar component is described by the Osipkov–Merritt anisotropy; the dark matter halo is isotropic, and a black hole is added at the centre of the galaxy. First, the conditions for a nowhere negative and monotonically decreasing dark matter halo density profile are derived; this profile can be made asymptotically coincident with an NFW profile at the centre and large radii. Then, the minimum value of the anisotropy radius for phase-space consistency is derived as a function of the galaxy parameters. The Jeans equations for the stellar component are solved analytically; the projected velocity dispersion at the centre and large radii is also obtained, for generic values of the anisotropy radius. Finally, analytical expressions for the terms entering the Virial Theorem are derived, and the fiducial anisotropy limit required to prevent the onset of Radial Orbit Instability is determined as a function of the galaxy parameters. The presented models, built following an approach already adopted in our previous works, can be a useful starting point for a more advanced modelling of the dynamics of elliptical galaxies, and can be easily implemented in numerical simulations requiring a realistic dynamical model of a galaxy.