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Active black holes in nine nearby galaxies trigger star-forming rings and shock waves

A new study published today in The Astrophysical Journal reports that actively growing supermassive black holes in nine nearby galaxies are associated with star-forming rings and fast shocks.

Active black holes reveal star-forming rings and shock waves in nine nearby galaxies
File photo Active black holes reveal star-forming rings and shock waves in nine nearby galaxies Photo: Phys.org

Observations from the VLT reveal linked processes

Researchers used the VLT/MUSE instrument to observe active galactic nuclei in these specific systems. The data shows that material falling into black holes is linked to energy outflows ejecting gas. These interactions create cone-shaped regions of energized gas alongside star-forming arcs.

Black holes reshape their surrounding environments

Peixin Zhu noted that the centers of galaxies both accrete and eject material simultaneously. Lisa Kewley stated that black holes actively reshape their surroundings rather than just consuming matter. This work provides a new perspective on how AGN feedback influences galaxy evolution.

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