This project will address some of the outstanding fundamental questions about quasars, including their triggering mechanisms and duty cycle, and the mass of the central engine. The investigation exploits recently discovered relationships between observable features of quasar host galaxies and fundamental parameters of their active nuclei. A study of star formation episodes and any possible relation to galaxy mergers will address the question of the triggering mechanism. Spectroscopic and deep imaging observations will directly identify any post-starburst stellar component in normal host galaxies, and thus place constraints on the origin and duration of the nuclear activity. Research into the relationship between host galaxy velocity dispersion and central black hole mass will employ an observing and analysis strategy that should enable easier measurements of the velocity dispersions and, potentially, the most accurate estimates to date of central black hole mass.
The program will provide broad insight into physical processes in the early Universe, and a valuable data set for other studies by the astronomical community. At least one graduate student will be involved in all phases. Research themes and material will be incorporated in courses for non-majors, and in public lectures.
