Physics & Astronomy - Astronomy Seminar - Emmanual Durodola, Dartmouth College

Title: "Exploring SMBH properties in the ILLustrisTNG simulation and EHT observations"

6/23/2023
1 pm - 2 pm
Location
Wilder 202 & Zoom
Sponsored by
Physics & Astronomy Department
Audience
Public
More information
Tressena Manning
603-646-2854

Abstract 1: The discovery of quasars at redshift z>6 has presented a significant challenge in understanding the origin and evolution of these early quasars. Addressing these questions within the context of galaxy evolution is a fundamental objective of N-body hydrodynamical simulations. In this study, we utilize the IllustrisTNG simulation to investigate how parameter choices, including seed mass and seed redshift, impact the population of supermassive black holes (SMBHs) in simulations. Our analysis reveals a correlation between the seed redshift of SMBHs and their mass at redshift z = 0. Furthermore, we assess the prevalence of Milky Way analogs within the simulated galaxy population and identify a limited number of three true Milky Way analogs. Lastly, we explore the accretion history of SMBHs in the simulation, shedding light on their growth over cosmic time.

 
Abstract 2: Supermassive black holes (SMBHs) with masses exceeding 106M are prevalent in galactic nuclei. They accrete matter through active galactic nuclei (AGN) accretion disks and can generate relativistic jets, which have significant impacts on their host galaxies. Accurate measurement of SMBH spin is crucial, as recent studies suggest it drives jet formation. We propose a method to constrain the spin of nearly face-on SMBHs, like M87*, using Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) images. Analyzing the orbital velocity of the near-horizon emission profile at 230 GHz from M87 GRMHD simulations, we expect strong correlations between gas velocity and SMBH spin. By constructing velocity maps using raw simulation data and ray-traced images, we observe a systematic decrease in the orbital velocity measured from ray-traced images. We also discuss the minimum resolution required for EHT images to determine SMBH spin accurately. 

Graduate Advisor: Professor Ryan Hickox

Join Zoom Meeting
https://dartmouth.zoom.us/j/96466645027?pwd=K0s5NDJtRFhLRUk0alpLTytVd0VEZz09

Meeting ID: 964 6664 5027
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Location
Wilder 202 & Zoom
Sponsored by
Physics & Astronomy Department
Audience
Public
More information
Tressena Manning
603-646-2854