Observational research to gain an understanding of the evolution of the interstellar medium in galaxies will be carried out. This evolution is far more complex and catastrophic than the once accepted notion of slow accumulation of gas shed by evolving stars. It may involve accretion or expulsion of large masses of gas. In some cases, it leads to massive bursts of star formation. The research will lead to a better understanding of early-type galaxies and the process of star formation. To provide a larger statistical data base of sensitive neutral hydrogen gas (HI), mass measurements and upper limits for elliptical galaxies (especially the most luminous galaxies), a 21-centimeter-wavelength-line survey at Arecibo Observatory will be extended to include a total of 201 elliptical galaxies. This data base may reveal relationships between HI content, other galactic properties, and characteristics of the environment. The spatial distribution and kinematics of neutral hydrogen in elliptical galaxies will be studied to test several theories of internal and external origins of the gas. The 21-centimeter- wavelength-line radiation of several normal, giant elliptical galaxies detected in the survey will be mapped. To elucidate the role that the interstellar medium plays in producing nuclear starbursts as it evolves or when it is disturbed, 21-centimeter- wavelength-line observations of a number of starburst spherical galaxies will be made.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Astronomical Sciences (AST)
Type
Standard Grant (Standard)
Application #
8818606
Program Officer
Pol C. Delosreyes
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
1988-08-01
Budget End
1990-07-31
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1988
Total Cost
$25,100
Indirect Cost
Name
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Nashville
State
TN
Country
United States
Zip Code
37240