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We present the first ROSAT PSPC observations of the proto-typical elliptical-in-formation, NGC 7252. These data are combined with observations of the cold and warm gas content of this late stage merger.
We find the X-ray emission occupies the central regions of the merger remnant, along with the molecular and ionized phases of the interstellar medium and the aging burst population. All of the atomic gas, on the other hand, is relegated to the outer, tidal features.
These observations suggest that the atomic gas content of the gas rich progenitors has removed from the remnant body partially through ejection into the tails and also through conversion to other forms in the body proper. Further, our observations suggest that the remnant may be able to continue converting the atomic gas returning from the outer regions to other forms. Therefore, we conclude that it seems likely that the remnant will evolve to resemble an elliptical galaxy not only in its light profile, but also in its atomic and hot gas contents.
