Jets and the emission-line spiral structure in IRAS 04210+0400

Abstract

We examine models in which jets are responsible for the formation of the emission-line spiral structure in IRAS 04210+0400. The kiloparsec-scale radio lobes in this active galaxy appear to be related to its extended emission-line spiral structure. The radio structure consists mainly of extended symmetrically bent, FR\,I-type lobes, which follow the emission-line spiral structure at their inner edge. In the central region of the galaxy a double radio source is observed with a separation of approximately 1\,arcsec between its components, which are extremely well aligned with the hotspot from which the southern lobe expands outwards. Hill et al (1988) suggested a model for the emission-line spiral structure invoking compressed interstellar matter, which is dragged away from the original jet path by the rotating ambient medium. From consideration of the propagation speed of the jets and the transverse ram pressure exerted by the rotating environment, we exclude this scenario as a possible origin of the spiral structure. We favour a model in which the jets themselves are bent by the rotating interstellar medium and possibly follows the emission-line spiral arms. We present fits of the model to the observed optical spiral structure. High sensitivity radio observations will be required to decide on the nature of the peculiar spiral structure in IRAS 04210+0400.