The Large-Scale Distribution of Quasars

Abstract

We report the investigation of spatial distribution of quasars using two different methods: the statistical study by means of 2-point correlation function and direct search for structures such as previously reported Large Quasar Groups. Having analyzed the combined sample of eight homogeneous quasar surveys (totalling near 2200 objects), we detected strong clustering at scales $r\leq 20h^{-1}$ Mpc ($H_0=100h$ and $q_0=0.5$) which seems, however, to be redshift dependent. Using reasonable selection criteria we have also sought for Large Quasar Groups (LQG) similar to those which were earlier found observationally. We discuss the properties of the detected groups and their implications for cosmology. We also discuss the suitability of the present data for getting the reliable statistical inference on quasar clustering.