Physics of Compact Nonthermal Sources. Theory of Radiation Processes

Abstract

view Abstract Citations (365) References (36) Co-Reads Similar Papers Volume Content Graphics Metrics Export Citation NASA/ADS Physics of Compact Nonthermal Sources. I. Theory of Radiation Processes Jones, T. W. ; O'Dell, S. L. ; Stein, W. A. Abstract The canonical nonthermal spectrum, taken to be incoherent electron-synchrotron radiation from a quasi-static source, i.e., one which does not vary radically over the observation period, is investigated allowing for the possibility of anisotropic electron distributions and highly ordered magnetic fields. From considerations of circular polarization, synchrotron self-absorption, selfCompton radiation, and Compton scattering off the microwave background, a system of restrictions upon the magnetic field and angular size of the source is parametrized in terms of the electron anisotropy and field geometry. The production and maintenance of small pitch angles for relativistic electrons is investigated. It is concluded that anisotropies visible in emission are difficult to achieve and maintain unless they result from relativistic hydrodynamical streaming. Subject headings: Compton scattering - hydromagnetics - polarization - radio sources - synchrotron radiation Publication: The Astrophysical Journal Pub Date: March 1974 DOI: 10.1086/152724 Bibcode: 1974ApJ...188..353J full text sources ADS |