Gemini/GMOS spectra of globular clusters in the Virgo giant elliptical NGC 4649
NGC 4649 (M60) is one of a handful of giant Virgo ellipticals. We have obtained Gemini/GMOS (Gemini North Multi-Object Spectrograph) spectra for 38 globular clusters (GCs) associated with this galaxy. Applying the multi-index χ<SUP>2</SUP> minimization technique of Proctor and Sansom wit...
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| Autores principales: | , , , , , , , , , , |
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| Formato: | Articulo |
| Lenguaje: | Inglés |
| Publicado: |
2006
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| Materias: | |
| Acceso en línea: | http://sedici.unlp.edu.ar/handle/10915/84358 |
| Aporte de: |
| Sumario: | NGC 4649 (M60) is one of a handful of giant Virgo ellipticals. We have obtained Gemini/GMOS (Gemini North Multi-Object Spectrograph) spectra for 38 globular clusters (GCs) associated with this galaxy. Applying the multi-index χ<SUP>2</SUP> minimization technique of Proctor and Sansom with the single stellar population models of Thomas, Maraston and Korn, we derive ages, metallicities and α-element abundance ratios. We find several young (2-3 Gyr old) supersolar metallicity GCs, while the majority are old (>10 Gyr), spanning a range of metallicities from solar to [Z/H] = -2. At least two of these young GCs are at large projected radii of 17-20 kpc. The galaxy itself shows no obvious signs of a recent starburst, interaction or merger. A trend of decreasing α-element ratio with increasing metallicity is found. |
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