Using double radio relics to constrain galaxy cluster mergers: A model of double radio relics in CIZA J2242.8+5301

TL;DR

This paper uses hydrodynamical simulations of galaxy cluster mergers to interpret radio relic observations, constraining merger parameters and ICM properties, especially when X-ray data is limited.

Contribution

It introduces a model linking double radio relics to merger dynamics, providing constraints on merger geometry, timing, and ICM clumping from radio observations.

Findings

CIZA J2242.8+5301 is likely undergoing a near edge-on merger with a 2:1 mass ratio.

The core passage occurred approximately 1 Gyr ago.

Density fluctuations in the relic region are not larger than 30%.

Abstract

Galaxy clusters grow by mergers with other clusters and galaxy groups. These mergers create shock waves within the intracluster medium (ICM) that can accelerate particles to extreme energies. In the presence of magnetic fields, relativistic electrons form large regions emitting synchrotron radiation, so-called radio relics. Behind the shock front, synchrotron and inverse Compton (IC) losses cause the radio spectral index to steepen away from the shock front. An example of such a cluster is CIZA J2242.8+5301, where very clear spectral steepening in the downstream region is observed. Here we present hydrodynamical simulations of idealized binary cluster mergers with the aim of constraining the merger scenario for this cluster. From our simulations, we find that CIZA J2242.8+5301 is probably undergoing a merger in the plane of the sky (less then 10 deg from edge-on) with a mass ratio of about 2:1, and an impact parameter < 400 kpc. We find that the core passage of the clusters happened about 1 Gyr ago. We conclude that double relics relics can set constraints on the mass ratios, impact parameters, timescales, and viewing geometry of binary cluster mergers, which is particularly useful when detailed X-ray observations are not available. In addition, the presence of large radio relics can be used to constrain the degree of clumping in the outskirts of the ICM, which is important to constrain the baryon fraction, density and entropy profiles, around the virial radius and beyond. We find that the amplitude of density fluctuations, with sizes of < 200 kpc, in the relic in CIZA J2242.8+5301 is not larger than 30%. [abridged]