Circumgalactic Chemistry: the Missing Physical Link Between Galaxies and Their Halo Gas

Date/Time

June 27th, 2024 – 4pm ET / 1pm PT

Speaker

Fakhri Zahedy, University of North Texas

Abstract

We now know that the typical galaxy is surrounded by a spatially extended circumgalactic medium (CGM) that serves as both its long-term fuel reservoir and garbage dump. While great progress has been made in understanding how galaxies grow and change, a self-consistent explanation for the physical origin of the CGM remains elusive. Understanding the physical con-ditions and chemistry of circumgalactic gas is essential to identify its origin and eventual fate. Using high-quality and high-resolution spectroscopy from space and ground, we can figure out the detailed chemical makeup of the CGM of individual galaxies. I will discuss the evidence for multitude physical origins of the CGM in different galaxy populations. I will end by discussing the prospects for future discoveries enabled by studying circumgalactic chemistry, using spatially resolved observations of the CGM obtained with the next generation of space and ground-based telescopes.

Meeting Connection

Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 975 2630 7635
Passcode: 659277