XRISM unveils high-speed gas movements in galaxy clusters
Scientists from XRISM have discovered why galaxy clusters remain hot. This phenomenon has intrigued researchers for years, but no answers were found as to what causes temperatures reaching millions of degrees Celsius.
Galaxy clusters constitute the largest structures in the universe, held together by the gravitational interaction of dark matter. Inside them, gas heats up to temperatures reaching tens of millions of degrees Celsius, leading to the emission of intense X-ray radiation. Until now, there was a lack of conclusive evidence on how these mysterious formations develop, including through collisions and mergers.
XRISM discovery
According to SciTech Daily, the XRISM team, while studying the Centaurus cluster, discovered that gas movements in its centre prevent it from cooling down. The gas moves at speeds of from 130 to 300 kilometres per second, which maintains high temperatures. This discovery provides evidence that collisions and mergers of clusters are crucial for their evolution.
Research has shown that the gas in the centre of the Centaurus cluster moves as a result of previous collisions with other clusters. These movements, called "sloshing," mix the gas, preventing it from cooling down and maintaining high temperatures.
Mysterious evolution of galaxies
This discovery is a breakthrough in understanding the formation and evolution of galaxy clusters. Thanks to the precise measurements of XRISM, scientists can now better understand how the largest structures in the universe evolve and what processes impact their dynamics.
The research, published in "Nature," not only deepens our knowledge of galaxy clusters but may also contribute to a better understanding of the formation of other celestial bodies.
