SIMBAD references

Brightest Cluster Galaxies (BCGs) are the largest galaxies in clusters, residing at their centers, tracing hierarchical structure formation. This study analyzes the structural properties of BCGs from the Abell cluster catalog (0.03 < z < 0.08) using archival Flexible Image Transport System imaging data from the Kitt Peak National Observatory 4 m telescope. AstroPhot-based Sérsic profile fitting extracts the key structural parameters, and incorporating point spread function convolution into the models produces improved residuals. Residual image analysis reveals consistent asymmetries, filaments, and tidal features, supporting hierarchical growth through mergers and accretion, and intracluster light highlights cluster dynamics' influence on BCG morphology. Higher Sérsic indices (n ∼ 4-8) indicate concentrated cores and extended halos, supporting mass growth via accretion and dry mergers. The Kormendy relation with a derived slope ($a$ = 3.40), verifies that BCGs follow scaling laws. The results support the two-phase formation model: early compaction (z > 2) forms dense cores, followed by merger-driven growth (z < 2).