The Sub-mm Morphology of the Interacting Galaxy NGC 3627

We present sub-mm continuum and heterodyne data of the interacting galaxy NGC 3627, obtained with the HHT and APEX. We find significant changes in the molecular line ratios over small scales in the southeastern part of this galaxy. The kinematics of the CO(2-1) line, as well as the morphology in the 870 μm continuum emission, suggest a continuation of the western spiral arm on the east side of the galaxy’s central area. This continued spiral arm crosses the normal eastern spiral arm in an area which shows an unusual magnetic field configuration. This spiral arm crossing, independently of if it's physical or just projected, may help in the understanding of the observed magnetic field configuration.