Abstract
AbstractM87, in the Virgo cluster, allows us to study the interaction of a supermassive black hole (SMBH) with its hot gaseous atmosphere. Deep Chandra observations reveal a nearly circular shock front with a Mach number of 1.2 and a radius of 13 kpc which is driven by a central cavity inflated by an SMBH outburst began 12 million years ago. An outburst with an energy of a ~5×57 ergs and a duration of ~2 Myrs provides a good match to all the constraints. For an outburst repetition rate of about 12 Myrs (the outburst age), the outburst energy is sufficient to balance the radiative cooling of the gas. The outburst duration in M87 argues for a “gentle” (long duration) outburst that does not generate strong shocks and where much of the outburst energy is deposited in the cavities that then transfer energy to the surrounding gas as they buoyantly rise.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Proceedings of the International Astronomical Union
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
