Abstract
The role of radio-loud active galactic nuclei (AGN) in continually re-heating the cooling gas in the haloes surrounding elliptical galaxies, and in clusters of galaxies, is investigated. The prevalence of radio-loud AGN activity amongst elliptical galaxies is found to scale strongly with the mass of the central black hole (as M1.6 BH). Combining this result with estimates of the mechanical energy output of these radio sources, the time-averaged energy output associated with recurrent radio source activity is derived: for elliptical galaxies of all masses, this is shown to balance the radiative energy losses from the hot gas surrounding the galaxy. Recurrent radio-loud AGN activity may therefore provide a self-regulating feedback mechanism capable of controlling the rate of growth of galaxies. The prevalence of radio-loud AGN activity amongst brightest cluster galaxies, and other cluster members is also determined, to investigate AGN feedback in galaxy clusters. Unless the efficiency of converting AGN mechanical energy into heating increases by 2–3 orders of magnitude between groups and rich clusters, radio–mode heating will not balance radiative cooling in systems of all masses.
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 callDisclaimer: 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.
