Quasars Concealed within Host Galaxies: New Research Reveals
New research challenges the prevailing idea that quasars are only obscured by donut-shaped rings of dust in their immediate surroundings. A study led by Durham University found evidence that in some quasars, the obscuration is entirely caused by the host galaxy itself. These quasars reside in compact "starburst galaxies" with intense rates of star formation, where clouds of gas and dust can completely hide the quasar. This phenomenon occurs during an intense growth spurt of the quasar and provides insights into the link between galaxy growth and black hole activity. Unveiling these buried quasars will help scientists understand the connection between galaxies and supermassive black holes.
