Multiphase signatures of active galactic nucleus feedback in Abell 2597

Abstract

We present new Chandra X-ray observations of the brightest cluster galaxy (BCG) in the cool-core cluster Abell 2597 (z= 0.0821). The data reveal an extensive kpc-scale X-ray cavity network as well as a 15-kpc filament of soft-excess gas exhibiting strong spatial correlation with archival Very Large Array radio data. In addition to several possible scenarios, multiwavelength evidence may suggest that the filament is associated with multiphase (103-107K) gas that has been entrained and dredged-up by the propagating radio source. Stemming from a full spectral analysis, we also present profiles and 2D spectral maps of modelled X-ray temperature, entropy, pressure and metal abundance. The maps reveal an arc of hot gas which in projection borders the inner edge of a large X-ray cavity. Although limited by strong caveats, we suggest that the hot arc may be (a) due to a compressed rim of cold gas pushed outwards by the radio bubble or (b) morphologically and energetically consistent with cavity-driven active galactic nucleus heating models invoked to quench cooling flows, in which the enthalpy of a buoyant X-ray cavity is locally thermalized as ambient gas rushes to refill its wake. If confirmed, this would be the first observational evidence for this model. © 2012 The Authors Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society © 2012 RAS.