Abstract
Context. The mass-metallicity relationship (MMR) of star-forming
galaxies is well-established, however there is still some disagreement
with respect to its exact shape and its possible dependence on other
observables. Aims: We measure the MMR in the Galaxy And Mass
Assembly (GAMA) survey. We compare our measured MMR to that measured in
the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) and study the dependence of the MMR
on various selection criteria to identify potential causes for
disparities seen in the literature. Methods: We use strong
emission line ratio diagnostics to derive oxygen abundances. We then
apply a range of selection criteria for the minimum signal-to-noise in
various emission lines, as well as the apparent and absolute magnitude
to study variations in the inferred MMR. Results: The shape and
position of the MMR can differ significantly depending on the
metallicity calibration and selection used. After selecting a robust
metallicity calibration amongst those tested, we find that the
mass-metallicity relation for redshifts 0.061 ≲ z ≲ 0.35 in
GAMA is in reasonable agreement with that found in the SDSS despite the
difference in the luminosity range probed. Conclusions: In view
of the significant variations of the MMR brought about by reasonable
changes in the sample selection criteria and method, we recommend that
care be taken when comparing the MMR from different surveys and studies
directly. We also conclude that there could be a modest level of
evolution over 0.06 ≤ z ≤ 0.35 within the GAMA sample.
Original language | English |
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Article number | A79 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Astronomy & Astrophysics |
Volume | 547 |
Early online date | 31 Oct 2012 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Nov 2012 |