Marla Geha edited Science Justification.tex  over 9 years ago

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The goal of this study is to obtain HI emission spectra of a large, well-defined, uniformily selected group of dwarf galaxies hosting active BHs. We seek to characterize the interstellar medium (ISM) of these low mass galaxies and to examine correlations between properties of the ISM and properties of the host BHs.   [Existing observations.] [Jenny, can you describe previous HI observations of AGN.]  Previous HI studies of AGN in higher mass galaxies have revealed[Jenny, can you write a paragraph summarizing your work with luis and jeremy?]  [AGN Feedback models]  In order to isolate the effect of BHs and AGN feedback on a galaxy's ISM, we will compare these new observations to exisiting dwarf galaxies in low density environments. We have recently obtained 21 cm spectra for 133 isolated dwarf galaxies (see AO projects A2751 and A2850). Since isolated galaxies do not suffer from external processes such as ram pressure stripping and tidal forces, we expect the cold gas content and star formation rate of these galaxies to be self-regulated. Comparing isolated dwarf galaxies without signs of AGN feedback to our AGN candidates will offer us a unique view into the effect of AGN feedback on a dwarf galaxy's ISM.