Spitzer Space Telescope - Directors Discretionary Time Proposal #1097


Measuring the Far Infrared Spectral Energy Distributions of a Complete
Sample of Broad Absorption Line Quasars

Principal Investigator: Sarah Gallagher
           Institution: UCLA

Science Category: AGN/quasars/radio galaxies 
 Observing Modes: MipsPhot 
  Hours Approved: 12.8 

Abstract:
Is the Broad Absorption Line (BAL) Quasar phenomenon an effect of
evolution or orientation?  The answer has significant implications for
understanding the connection between the growth of supermassive black
holes and their host galaxies;  BAL outflows are likely to be an
important mechanism for regulating black hole accretion.  To address
this issue, this program will measure the far infrared spectral energy
distributions of a complete sample of BAL quasars drawn from the Large
Bright Quasar Survey.  These data, in conjunction with information
from other wavelength regimes, are crucial for accurately constraining
the star formation rates, bolometric luminosities, and accretion rates
in BAL quasars.  Comparing these fundamental physical properties to
those of non-BAL quasars will enable a full investigation into the
evolution versus orientation explanation for the BAL wind.