Merger Shocks Enhance Quenching in Local Galaxy Clusters

TL;DR

This study shows that merger shocks in galaxy clusters can rapidly quench star formation, especially in low-mass galaxies, highlighting the environmental impact of cluster mergers on galaxy evolution.

Contribution

It provides new observational evidence linking merger shocks to enhanced galaxy quenching in low-redshift clusters with radio relics.

Findings

Quenching is strongest in low-mass galaxies within clusters with radio relics.

Merger shocks are associated with rapid suppression of star formation.

Environmental effects like ram pressure are key in galaxy quenching during mergers.

Abstract

We report evidence for enhanced quenching in low-redshift galaxy clusters hosting radio relics. This effect is strongest for low-mass galaxies and is consistent with a rapid quenching of star formation. These results imply that merger shocks in the intracluster medium play a role in driving environmental quenching, which we argue is due to the elevated ram pressure experienced by satellite galaxies in these disturbed systems.