VLT/Uves Observations of the Dla at Z=3.39 towards QSO 0000-2621

Abstract

UVES observations at ESO/VLT of the DLA at z=3.39 towards QSO 0000-2621 provided refined abundances for Fe, Si, N, Ni, and new abundances for O, Ar, P, Zn, Cr, H2. These determinations confirm that the system has remarkable properties with the lowest metallicity, a very low H2 molecular fraction and it has no detectable presence of dust. The [alpha/Fe-peak] ratio is ~ 0.1 challenging current models of chemical evolution. The O/Ar and O/S ratios are the same as those observed in BCGs, suggesting a universal IMF.

To appear in `Cosmic Evolution' Conference at IAp, Paris 13-17 Nov 2000