The 8-13 Micron Spectrum of Arp 299C
Abstract
Arp 299C is a 5 × 1010 infrared source in the merging galaxy system Arp 299. It is the most luminous object known that is not obviously associated with a galaxy nucleus. Our data show that the 8--13 μm spectrum of Arp 299C has a strong emission line and emission features like those of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon molecules. These emission features are characteristic of regions associated with a burst of star formation. We did not detect any high-excitation ionic lines characteristic of an active galactic nucleus, nor a deep silicate absorption feature that might indicate a hidden compact nucleus. We deduce that Arp 299C is powered by an intense burst of star formation.
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