Towards Understanding the Nuclues of M31
Abstract
A simple model of the nucleus of M31 based on HST images and ground based spectroscopy is used to investigate the properties of the double nucleus in M31. The model reproduces the general properties observed in the nucleus of M31. In particular, it produces symmetric rotation curves, and shifts of the velocity dispersion peak in the sense observed. Within the constraints of the model, the brightest point in the V band in the nucleus is confirmed to be physically near to the dynamical center of M31 and not seen in projection along the line of sight. The velocity and velocity dispersion of this object can be constrained. This implies that P2 is colliding with M31 and likely to be in the process of being tidally disrupted.
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