posted on 2019-06-25, 08:53authored byKastytis Zubovas, Andrew R. King
Supermassive black holes (SMBHs) are found in the centres of most
galaxies. Their masses, and hence their gravitational potentials, are negligible
compared with those of the host galaxy. However, several strong correlations
between SMBH masses and host galaxy properties have been observed, notably
the M − σ relation connecting the SMBH mass to the characteristic velocity
of stars in the galaxy. The existence of these correlations implies that the
SMBH influences the evolution of its host galaxy. In this review, we present the
most promising physical model of this influence, known as the Active galactic
nucleus (AGN) wind feedback model. Winds launched from the accretion disc
around the SMBH can drive powerful outflows, provided that the SMBH is
massive enough - this condition establishes the M − σ relation. Outflows can
have a profound influence on the evolution of the host galaxy, by compressing
its gas and driving it out, affecting the star formation rate. We present the
current status of the model and the observational evidence for it, as well as
the directions of future research.
History
Citation
General Relativity and Gravitation, 2019, 51:65
Author affiliation
/Organisation/COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING/Department of Physics and Astronomy
The file associated with this record is under embargo until 12 months after publication, in accordance with the publisher's self-archiving policy. The full text may be available through the publisher links provided above.