ISSN:
1572-946X
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Physics
Notes:
Abstract Using IRAS measurements, we find positive correlations between both the infrared to optical flux ratio (L FIR/L B) and infrared colour temperature (L 60/L 100) with optical surface brightness. These correlations can be understood by high surface brightness galaxies having (i) a high star formation rate, or (ii) a high-space density of stars and dust. In an attempt to interpret (ii) above, we have produced radiative transfer models for the dust absorption in a galactic disc. These models indicate that the highest surface brightness galaxies may be the most dust obscured (i.e., optically thick) and that the total luminosity (and, hence, mass) of these galaxies may be considerably underestimated.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00637344
