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The origin of Lyα absorption systems at z > 1: Implications from the Hubble Deep Field

  • Stony Brook University
  • Carnegie Institution of Washington
  • University of New South Wales

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

8 Scopus citations

Abstract

The Hubble Deep Field images have provided us with a unique chance to relate statistical properties of high-redshift galaxies to statistical properties of Lyα absorption systems. Combining an empirical measure of the galaxy surface density versus redshift with an empirical measure of the gaseous extent of galaxies, we predict the number density of Lyα absorption systems that originate in extended gaseous envelopes of galaxies versus redshift. We show that at least 50% and as much as 100% of observed Lyα absorption systems of W ≳ 0.32 Å can be explained by extended gaseous envelopes of galaxies. Therefore, we conclude that known galaxies of known gaseous extent must produce a significant fraction and perhaps all of Lyα absorption systems over a large redshift range.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)120-124
Number of pages5
JournalAstrophysical Journal
Volume533
Issue number1 PART 1
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 10 2000

Keywords

  • Galaxies: evolution
  • Galaxies: halos
  • Galaxies: ISM
  • Quasars: absorption lines

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