The generalized Poynting-Robertson effect

Abstract

view Abstract Citations (11) References (9) Co-Reads Similar Papers Volume Content Graphics Metrics Export Citation NASA/ADS The generalized Poynting-Robertson effect. Carroll, Douglas L. Abstract The special relativistic equations of motion for a particle and the general relativistic equations of motion for a fluid in an arbitrary radiation field are formulated. The Poynting-Robertson forces are manifested in some of the velocity-dependent terms obtained. Newtonian approximations to the equations of motion are solved for a particle in orbit about a spherically symmetric source of radiation, where the angular size of the source as seen from the orbit is arbitrary. Situations are considered in which the absorption cross section of the particle is independent of frequency, as well as when the particle is an atom absorbing in a spectral line. In both instances, it is found that the finite size of the source of radiation leads to greater Poynting-Robertson drags than a point source of the same luminosity. The Newtonian equations are solved for a particle moving radially outward from the source. Limits for the velocities of high-speed particles resulting from Poynting-Robertson drags are obtained. The fluid equations are discussed briefly in their relation to theoretical treatments of relativistic jets and accretion disks. Publication: The Astrophysical Journal Pub Date: January 1990 DOI: 10.1086/168265 Bibcode: 1990ApJ...348..588C Keywords: Computational Astrophysics; Equations Of Motion; Poynting-Robertson Effect; Relativistic Effects; Accretion Disks; Hydrodynamics; Optical Thickness; Radiative Transfer; White Dwarf Stars; Astrophysics full text sources ADS | data products SIMBAD (1)