Nature and origin of the F1 and F2 sources in Abell 2256

Ascertain whether the F1 and F2 components in the F complex of Abell 2256 are physically connected to the narrow-angle tailed radio galaxy F3 (associated with Fabricant galaxy 122) or instead represent revived fossil plasma unrelated to F3.

Background

The F complex (F1, F2, F3) lies on the west side of the Abell 2256 halo. F3 is a narrow-angle tailed source clearly associated with a cluster member, but the relationship of F1 and F2 to F3 is uncertain. Competing interpretations include their being part of the same tailed system or independent fossil plasma structures re-energized by intracluster processes. New ultra-low-frequency data reveal broader extents and complex spectra but do not resolve the ambiguity.