The M82 Outflow: X-rays as a Probe for Neutral Disk Gas

Abstract

Abstract. We present an analysis of X-ray absorption in the nearby starburst galaxy M 82. The X-ray attenuating column densities in the northern part of the M 82 outflow can be associated with cold disk gas detected in maps of HI and CO(l~O). We derive an Xeo factor which is somewhat lower as compared to that in our Galaxy. This is in good agreement with multi-transition line studies of various molecules in the disk of M82.