Merger Shocks Enhance Quenching in Local Galaxy Clusters

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 elevated ram pressure in these disturbed systems.

Keywords

• Galaxy clusters
• Galaxy evolution
• Star formation
• Galaxy quenching
• Radio continuum emission