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Molecules at early epochs. IV. Confirmation of the detection of H2 toward PKS 0528 - 250

Journal Article · · Astrophys. J.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1086/165893· OSTI ID:5425909
New spectroscopic observations of the QSO PKS 0528 - 250 obtained with 1 and 5 A resolution are presented. The observed wavelengths of the C IV 1548, 1550 A, and Si IV 1393, 1402 A emission lines yield a reliable determination of the redshift of z(em) = 2.770 + or - 0.005. The absorption system is examined at z(abs) = 2.811 for absorption by molecular hydrogen, and strong evidence is found supporting its existence in the system. The column density is found to be N(H2) = 10 to the 18th/sq cm, the Doppler parameter is 5 km/s, and the excitation temperature is 100 K. A limit of 0.0002 is set on the fractional change of the ratio of the electron to the proton inertial mass over the interval of cosmic time form z = 2.811. The implications of the detection for understanding of the physical process in the absorbing cloud are discussed. 21 references.
Research Organization:
Multiple Mirror Telescope Observatory, Tucson, AZ (USA); Steward Observatory, Tucson, AZ (USA)
OSTI ID:
5425909
Journal Information:
Astrophys. J.; (United States), Journal Name: Astrophys. J.; (United States) Vol. 324; ISSN ASJOA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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