Abstract
Many quasar-like objects show evidence for massive binary black holes1. The recent discovery2 of a massive (5 × 106 M⊙) object in the centre of the local group dwarf elliptical M 32 greatly raises the probability of forming such binaries through galactic mergers. Here I argue that the enhancement of all kinds of activity (quasar-like activity and star formation) in galaxies with companions is not so much a consequence of tidal interaction between the massive galaxies as the result of collisions with their dwarf satellites.
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Gaskell, C. Galactic mergers, starburst galaxies, quasar activity and massive binary black holes. Nature 315, 386 (1985). https://doi.org/10.1038/315386a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/315386a0
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