The quasar M_bh - M_host relation through Cosmic Time I - Dataset and black hole masses

TL;DR

This paper investigates the evolution of the black hole mass to host galaxy mass relation over cosmic time using a sample of 96 quasars, detailing data collection, methods for estimating black hole masses, and uncertainties involved.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive dataset and methodology for studying the M_bh - M_host relation across different epochs, including new spectroscopic observations and analysis procedures.

Findings

Sample of 96 quasars from z=3 to present analyzed.

Methodology for deriving black hole masses from spectra explained.

Uncertainties in mass estimation discussed.

Abstract

We study the M_bh - M_host relation as a function of Cosmic Time in a sample of 96 quasars from z=3 to the present epoch. In this paper we describe the sample, the data sources and the new spectroscopic observations. We then illustrate how we derive M_bh from single-epoch spectra, pointing out the uncertainties in the procedure. In a companion paper, we address the dependence of the ratio between the black hole mass and the host galaxy luminosity and mass on Cosmic Time.