Radio Emission from SWIFT J0003.3-5254: Relic of Particle Acceleration in a Merging Galaxy Cluster?
Abstract
Galaxy clusters, particularly those undergoing major mergers, are expected to efficiently accelerate particles. However, the rarity of clusters with observational evidence for particle acceleration means little is known about the energetics and production of these cosmic rays. Analysis of archival X-ray and near-IR observations of SWIFT J0003.3-5254 suggests it is a z ~0.25 galaxy cluster undergoing a major merger. With the requested ATCA observations, we will determine if its previously detected radio emission is the result of past particle acceleration or AGN activity. If it is relic emission, we will use its spectral properties to estimate the acceleration efficiency and Mach number of these shocks. If it is AGN emission, we will use the X-ray properties of the cluster and the radio power of the AGN to study its interaction with the intracluster medium. In either case, we will better understand the physics of galaxy clusters.
- Publication:
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ATNF Proposal
- Pub Date:
- October 2013
- Bibcode:
- 2013atnf.prop.5735G
- Keywords:
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- spectroscopy and imaging of nearby galaxies;
- ATCA