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Magnetic Fields in Spiral Arms.
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1953
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Magnetic fields in spiral arms are a fundamental aspect of galactic structure. The paper presents two independent methods for estimating the magnetic field in the Milky Way’s spiral arm. The first method derives the field strength from the dispersion of starlight polarization planes, yielding H≈7.2×10⁻⁶ G, while the second uses equilibrium of the arm against lateral expansion, giving H≈6×10⁻⁶ G. Both approaches estimate a microgauss‑level field, with values of roughly 7.2×10⁻⁶ G and 6×10⁻⁶ G. Published in The Astrophysical Journal (July 1953), DOI 10.1086/145731.
view Abstract Citations (621) References Co-Reads Similar Papers Volume Content Graphics Metrics Export Citation NASA/ADS Magnetic Fields in Spiral Arms. Chandrasekhar, S. ; Fermi, E. Abstract In this paper two independent methods are described for estimating the magnetic field in the spiral arm in which we are located. The first method is based on an interpretation of the dispersion (of the order of 10 ) in the observed planes of polarization of the light of the distant stars; it leads to an estimate of H = 7.2 x 10-6 gauss. The second method is based on the requirement of equilibrium of the spiral arm with respect to lateral expansion and contraction: it leads to an estimate of H = 6 X 10 gauss. Publication: The Astrophysical Journal Pub Date: July 1953 DOI: 10.1086/145731 Bibcode: 1953ApJ...118..113C full text sources ADS | Related Materials (1) Commentary: 1999ApJ...525C.523S