[1][4] The galaxy appears in deep photographs to be tidally distorted, and a diffuse tail is extending towards the north-west.

[5] The nucleus of NGC 7172 was originally considered to be normal,[6] but later observations revealed that it emitted X-rays[7][8] and was a powerful infrared source, which exhibited variation.

[5] These findings indicated that NGC 7172 has an active galactic nucleus which is obstructed in optical wavelengths.

[14] The hard X-ray spectrum appears similar to that of a Seyfert I galaxy, indicating that the nucleus is seen though a Compton-thin absorber.

A strong obsurption feature is observed, probably the 9.7-μm silicate dust absorption line.