How do AGN numerical simulations compare to observations?4 answersAGN numerical simulations are compared to observations to understand the impact of AGN feedback on galaxy populations. Simulations show that without AGN feedback, simulated galaxies become too compact compared to observed galaxies at z<2. However, when AGN winds are included in the simulations, they reduce the gas surface density in the inner regions of the galaxy, suppressing the compact starburst and maintaining a constant half-mass radius. Simulations also predict a level of intrinsic scatter in the scaling relations between supermassive black hole mass and stellar mass of host galaxies, which is comparable to observations. The dispersion of the scaling relation is reduced when a new feedback model considering the geometry of AGN outflow is adopted. These comparisons highlight the importance of AGN feedback in shaping galaxy properties and the need for forward-modeling when comparing simulated and observed galaxy populations.
How does the evolution of quasars affect the formation of galaxies?4 answersThe evolution of quasars has a significant impact on the formation of galaxies. High-redshift quasars, powered by black holes with large inferred masses, imply rapid black hole growth in the early Universe. The growth of these quasars via gas accretion leads to significant energy input into the quasar host galaxy and its surroundings. Quasar-driven winds expel metal-enriched gas, resulting in metal pollution of the circumgalactic medium (CGM). Observations show that quasar outflows have a negative global feedback effect on star formation in host galaxies. The star formation rate decreases in quasars with low-ionization broad absorption lines (LoBAL) and increases in quasars with high-ionization broad absorption lines (HiBAL). This suggests a quenching and subsequent rebound of star formation as quasars evolve from HiBALs to non-BALs. Overall, the evolution of quasars influences the star formation and metal enrichment processes in galaxies.
What is the relationship between the evolution of quasars and galaxy formations?5 answersThe evolution of quasars is closely related to galaxy formation. Observations suggest that outflows driven by active supermassive black holes (SMBHs) in quasars have a feedback effect on shaping the global properties of the host galaxy. The star formation rate (SFR) in quasar host galaxies decreases from low-ionization (Lo)BAL to high-ionization (Hi)BAL quasars, and then increases from HiBAL to non-BAL quasars, indicating a quenching and subsequent rebound of star formation. The outflow from the quasar suppresses the SFR, which then rebounds once the outflow disappears as the quasars evolve from HiBALs to non-BALs. This negative global feedback suggests that the quasar outflow has a significant impact on galaxy evolution. The rapid growth of supermassive black holes in the early universe is also connected to the fast chemical evolution of the host galaxy.
What is the relationship between AGN obscuration and star formation rate?4 answersThe relationship between AGN obscuration and star formation rate is complex and varies depending on the specific conditions. Some studies suggest that AGN can enhance the star formation rate of their host galaxies, particularly when the galaxies lie below the main sequence of star formation. However, other studies indicate that AGN can also quench the star formation of their host galaxies, especially when the galaxies lie above the main sequence. Additionally, the presence of AGN can affect the average dust temperatures of galaxies, potentially influencing the shape of the well-known L_IR-T_dust relation. Overall, the impact of AGN obscuration on star formation rate is influenced by factors such as redshift, X-ray luminosity, and the location of the galaxy relative to the main sequence.
Where does near infrared emission originate in AGN?5 answersNear infrared emission in AGN is primarily originated from thermal dust emission in radio-quiet AGN, which is responsible for the bulk of radiation from the near-infrared through submillimeter wavelengths. This dust emission is fueled by enormous supplies of molecular gas and dust funneled into the nuclear region during the strong interaction/merger of gas-rich disks. The emission from the dusty torus around the AGN, as predicted by the AGN unified model, may not persist in low accretion rate AGN, suggesting that dust can better account for the infrared emission in these objects. Additionally, the hot dust around the accretion disk and optically thin emission of dusty clouds within the inner region around the black hole contribute to the near infrared emission in AGN.
What galaxies have active star formation?13 answers