Neutral hydrogen gas in galaxy clusters

In summary, neutral hydrogen gas in galaxy clusters can greatly influence the evolution and star-formation activity of its member galaxies, but the specific mechanisms of this influence are not well understood. It is also suggested that cluster mergers do not significantly reduce the amount of neutral hydrogen gas.
  • #1
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Neutral hydrogen gas in galaxy clusters

Most galaxies are members of a cluster, a grouping of several to thousands of galaxies. Our Milky Way, for example, is a member of the "Local Group," a set of about fifty galaxies whose other large member is the Andromeda galaxy about 2.3 million light-years away. The closest large cluster of galaxies to us is the Virgo Cluster, with about 2000 members; its center is about 50 million light-years away. The clustering of galaxies influences how any particular member galaxy will evolve, but what happens and how it happens are not well understood. The cluster's influences on the star-formation activity within its galaxies is a particularly interesting question because the star formation rate helps set the luminosity of a galaxy, its supernovae activity, and the processing of its hydrogen gas into heavier elements.

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  • #2
"... implying that the cluster merger does not reduce the amount of the gas." (from link)
Is this particularly startling? Given H concentrations of order of "atom per cubic meter" that I grew up hearing as best guess?
 
  • #3
This is great guess, but it seems there is no credible basis
 

Related to Neutral hydrogen gas in galaxy clusters

1. What is neutral hydrogen gas in galaxy clusters?

Neutral hydrogen gas is a form of gas that consists of hydrogen atoms that have not lost or gained any electrons. It is the most abundant element in the universe and plays a crucial role in the formation and evolution of galaxies.

2. How is neutral hydrogen gas detected in galaxy clusters?

Neutral hydrogen gas emits a specific wavelength of radio waves, which can be detected using radio telescopes. This emission is known as the 21-centimeter line and is used to map the distribution and movement of hydrogen gas in galaxy clusters.

3. Why is the study of neutral hydrogen gas important in understanding galaxy clusters?

Neutral hydrogen gas is a vital component of galaxy clusters as it serves as the fuel for star formation. By studying its distribution and properties, scientists can gain insights into the formation, evolution, and dynamics of galaxy clusters.

4. What can the presence of neutral hydrogen gas tell us about the environment of galaxy clusters?

The presence of neutral hydrogen gas can provide valuable information about the physical conditions and environment in galaxy clusters. It can reveal the temperature, density, and pressure of the gas, as well as the effects of interactions between galaxies and the gas.

5. How does the amount of neutral hydrogen gas in galaxy clusters vary?

The amount of neutral hydrogen gas in galaxy clusters varies depending on several factors, such as the age of the cluster, its location in the universe, and the density of surrounding gas. Generally, younger clusters have more hydrogen gas, while older clusters have less due to the ongoing star formation and depletion of gas.

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