Cluster contribution to the X-ray background as a cosmological probe

TL;DR

This paper investigates how the contribution of galaxy clusters to the X-ray background can serve as a tool to test cosmological models, comparing predictions from standard and alternative theories with observations.

Contribution

It provides a comparative analysis of cluster contributions to the X-ray background in $b1$CDM and alternative non-Gaussian and early dark energy models, highlighting their diagnostic potential.

Findings

Non-Gaussian models overpredict the XRB contribution, conflicting with observations.

Standard $b1$CDM predictions align better with measured XRB levels.

The XRB can set upper limits on cluster concentration parameters.

Abstract

Extensive measurements of the X-ray background (XRB) yield a reasonably reliable characterisation of its basic properties. Having resolved most of the cosmic XRB into discrete sources, the levels and spectral shapes of its main components can be used to probe both the source populations and also alternative cosmological and large-scale structure models. Recent observations of clusters seem to provide evidence that clusters formed earlier and are more abundant than predicted in the standard $\Lambda$CDM model. This motivates interest in alternative models that predict enhanced power on cluster scales. We calculate predicted levels and spectra of the superposed emission from groups and clusters of galaxies in $\Lambda$CDM and in two viable alternative non-Gaussian ($\chi^2$) and early dark energy models. The predicted levels of the contribution of clusters to the XRB in the non-Gaussian models exceed the measured level at low energies and levels of the residual XRB in the 2-8 keV band; these particular models are essentially ruled out. Our work demonstrates the diagnostic value of the integrated X-ray emission from clusters, by considering also its dependences on different metallicities, gas and temperature profiles, Galactic absorption, merger scenarios, and on a non-thermal pressure component. We also show that the XRB can be used for a upper limit for the concentration parameter value.