Abstract
view Abstract Citations References Co-Reads Similar Papers Volume Content Graphics Metrics Export Citation NASA/ADS Star Formation in Elliptical Galaxies and Intense Radio Sources. Cameron, A. G. W. Abstract Burbidge, the most probable energy input to intense radio emission comes from a short-lived period of enhanced supernova activity in a galaxy; he suggested that a Type I supernova chain reaction might accomplish this. I consider the former proposal convincing, but the latter suggestion implausible. Instead, it appears probable that in a giant elliptical galaxy, a type most commonly associated with intense radio sources, star formation should inevitably lead to a short-lived period of intense Type II supernova activity. If a hydrogen number density ~0.01 cm-3 and a magnetic field 10-6 gauss are not untypical of such galaxies, then, from the virial theorem, it follows that gravitational instability will arise only when the gravitational potential energy is greater than the magnetic energy contained in a large mass of gas (108 or more solar masses). In the ensuing collapse of such a gas cloud, the rise of the magnetic field energy prevents fragmentation; the collapse should continue until a flattened disk is formed. Star formation can then probably take place in a few million years by condensation along the lines of force. We do not know what luminosity function to expect for the new stars; the formation of small stars may be inhibited by the large magnetic field. The massive stars should all evolve to the Type II supernova stage in about three million years. The condensation process always produces a pinch in the magnetic field, and should occasionally produce an optical j et such as that of M87. If the magnetic field has intergalactic connections, then the field expansion caused by the high energy density of the particles should produce two outward-moving magnetic mirrors, and hence a double radio source. Publication: The Astronomical Journal Pub Date: March 1962 DOI: 10.1086/108815 Bibcode: 1962AJ.....67Q.269C full text sources ADS |
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