Physical conditions, dynamics, and mass distribution in the center of the galaxy.
Abstract
Recent observations and theoretical models of the Galactic center (GC) are reviewed. An overview of phenomena seen in the GC is given, including the stellar cluster, radio continuum emission and interstellar clouds, the Sgr A complex, and X-ray and gamma emission. Also discussed are the energetics and physical conditions in the central 4 pc (star burst or central source?); the circumnuclear ring, ionized streamers, and relativistic and hot gas in the cavity; the mass distribution and the possibility of a massive black hole, and the central 0.1 pc (Sgr A and IRS 16). Diagrams, graphs, photographs, and tables of numerical data are provided.
- Publication:
-
Annual Review of Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Pub Date:
- 1987
- DOI:
- 10.1146/annurev.aa.25.090187.002113
- Bibcode:
- 1987ARA&A..25..377G
- Keywords:
-
- Galactic Mass;
- Galactic Nuclei;
- Galactic Rotation;
- Milky Way Galaxy;
- Gamma Ray Spectra;
- Gas Dynamics;
- Molecular Clouds;
- Radio Spectra;
- Star Clusters;
- X Ray Spectra;
- Astrophysics