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 the elevated ram pressure experienced by satellite galaxies in these disturbed systems.

arXiv comment6 pages, 3 figures, accepted for publication in ApJ