| Abstract | The results of H I major axis mapping observations of 24 galaxies in the Virgo cluster are presented, together with an analysis of the relationship between H I deficiency and the candidate mechanisms for sweeping in the Virgo cluster. The observations were made of the 21 cm line using the Arecibo 305 m reflector and the 14 m flat feed, and flux integrals were solved at various angular distances along the major axis of each galaxy. A normal H I content was defined, together with an H I deficiency factor, with which the amount the galaxy's H I mass deviated from the norm could be predicted on the basis of the optical diameter. It was determined that galaxies closer to the center of the supercluster are more likely to be deficient in H I mass, and the deficiency is related to the relative velocity with respect to the cluster. A ram pressure sweeping the interstellar gas from spiral galaxies in a cluster is indicated. |
