Gas, dust, and star formation in distant radio galaxies

Author(s):
Reuland, M.A.
Published
2005
Publication type
Doctoral Thesis

Abstract

In this thesis I discuss recent observations of distant (z > 2) radio galaxies. There is strong evidence that radio galaxies are the progenitors of the brightest cluster ellipticals and are among the most luminous and massive galaxies at any epoch, allowing relatively detailed studies of their formation process out to large distances. Submillimeter emission has been detected in many, implying star formation rates of order 1000 Msun/yr over scales of tens of kpc, consistent with a scenario in which these galaxies are currently forming the bulk of their eventual stellar population. Many radio galaxies also host giant (~ 150 kpc) emission line nebulae. We obtaind very deep narrow-band Ly-a images for a select few of these. The observations show spectacular detail with a wealth of morphological structure, such as extended (~ 80 kpc) filamentary structures, giving insight in feedback processes during their formation. I discuss the possible origin and the ionization source of these halos in connection with the sub-mm results, and discuss possible implications for theories of galaxy formation.

CosmologyGalaxy formationRadio galaxiesEmission lines
Defense date
2005-02-24
Language
English
Supervisor(s)
Miley, G.K.
Advisor(s)
Breugel, W.J.M, van; Röttgering, H.J.A.
Committee member(s)
Zeeuw, P.T. de; Franx, M.; Mellema, G.; Werf, P.P. van der
Qualification
Ph.D.
Degree granting institution
Leiden Observatory, Faculty of Science, Leiden University, Leiden
hdl
1887/2463