Abstract
We extend Jokipii and Lerche's analysis of the turbulent structure of our Galaxy by means of a study of the rotation measure of extragalactic sources. Like them we use a simple, statistically homogeneous and isotropic disc model of the Galaxy and assume that the magnetic field has both an average component and a fluctuating one. We assume that the electron density is proportional to some power of the magnetic field (NeαBn with 1≤n≤2). Using the rotation measure data on 242 extragalactic sources given by Vallee and Kronberg we consider both an exponential and a Gaussian two-point correlation function for the (Gaussian) fluctuating component of the magnetic field with a correlation lengthL. We find reasonable agreement between theory and observations for an average magnetic field of about 3 μG, a fluctuating magnetic field component with an amplitude of about 2.6μG, an average electron density of about 0.03 cm−3, a fluctuating density component of about 0.05 cm−3, and a correlation length of about 300 pc.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
