Dust and ionized gas association in E/S0 galaxies with dust lanes: Clues to their origin

Abstract

We present results from an ongoing programme to study the dust and ionized gas in E/S0 galaxies with dust lanes. Our data, together with results from previous studies of E/S0 galaxies, are used to demonstrate the close relationship between these two components. This relationship is discussed in light of our current understanding of the nature and origin of the interstellar medium (ISM), and in particular in the context of the interplay between the different multi-temperature components. We show that focusing on dust obscured regions as tracers of the ISM, and on their properties, serves as independent evidence for the external origin of the dust and ionized gas. © 2012 The Author Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society © 2012 RAS.