ASCA Observation of the Supernova Remnant W49B
Abstract
The supernova remnant W49B with a center-filled X-ray morphology was observed with the Japanese X-ray satellite ASCA, and a spectrum of unprecedented quality was obtained with the X-ray CCD cameras on board. The observed spectrum is consistent with entirely thermal emission, and individual K emission lines from highly ionized atoms of Si, S, Ar, Ca, and Fe are clearly resolved. It cannot, however, be reproduced by a single plasma component, even if non-equilibrium ionization is introduced, and requires multiple plasma components. The images constructed with photons of the Si-, S-, and Fe-lines, respectively, indicate that iron ions are mostly confined to the inner part of the remnant, and that those of the lower-Z elements form an outer envelope. This feature is interpreted as being due to a stratified distribution of elements.
- Publication:
-
Publications of the Astronomical Society of Japan
- Pub Date:
- October 1995
- Bibcode:
- 1995PASJ...47L..31F
- Keywords:
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- ISM: INDIVIDUAL (W49B);
- SHOCK WAVES;
- SUPERNOVAE;
- SUPERNOVA REMNANTS;
- X-RAYS: SOURCES;
- X-RAYS: SPECTRA