A unified model for AGN feedback in cosmological simulations of structure formation

Understand

We discuss a numerical model for black hole growth and its associated feedback processes that for the first time allows cosmological simulations of structure formation to self-consistently follow the build up of the cosmic population of galaxies and active galactic nuclei.

• Our model assumes that seed black holes are present at early cosmic epochs at the centres of forming halos.
• We then track their growth from gas accretion and mergers with other black holes in the course of cosmic time.
• For black holes that are active, we distinguish between two distinct modes of feedback, depending on the black hole accretion rate itself.