Interaction of the galactic-centre super bubbles with the gaseous disc

Abstract

ABSTRACT The interaction of Galactic centre (GC) super bubbles (GSBs) with the gaseous disc and halo of the Milky Way is investigated using radio continuum, X-ray, H i, and CO line surveys. The radio North Polar Spur (NPS) constitutes the brightest eastern ridge of GSB, brightening towards the galactic plane and reaching l = 22○, b = +2○ at the sharpest end, where it intersects the tangential direction of the 3-kpc-expanding ring and crater. Examination of the spur ridges reveals that the entire GSB, including the NPS and its counter spurs, constitutes a GC-symmetrical Ω/ Ʊ shape. The thickness and gas density of the H i and CO discs are shown to increase sharply from the inside (lower longitude) to the outside the 3-kpc crater. Formation of crater is explained by the sweeping of the upper layer of disc gas by the shock wave from the GC by the explosion ∼10 My ago with the emitted energy of several 1055 erg. Based on the discussion, a unified view on the structure and formation mechanism of GSB is presented.