Showing papers in "Astronomy Letters in 1997"

RX J0720.4-3125 as a possible example of magnetic field decay in neutron stars

Abstract: We consider the possible evolution of the rotation period and magnetic field of the X-ray source RX J0720.4-3125, assuming that this source is an isolated neutron star accreting from the interstellar medium. The magnetic field of the source is estimated to be 106–109 G (the most probable value is about 2·108 G), and it is difficult to explain the observed rotational period 8.38 s without invoking the hypothesis of magnetic field decay. For calculations we used the model of ohmic dissipation of the field in the core of the neutron star. Estimates for the accretion rate (10−14–10−16 M⊙/yr), velocity of the source through the interstellar medium (10–50 km/s), and neutron star age (2·109–1010 yrs) are obtained.

A burst of electromagnetic radiation from a collapsing magnetized star

Abstract: The pattern of variations in the intensity of magnetodipole losses is studied with the relativistic effect of magnetic-field dissipation during collapse into a black hole taken into account. A burst-type solution can be obtained both for a direct collapse and for the formation of a rapidly-rotating, self-gravitating object - a spinar - using a simple model. Analytical dependences on radius describing an electromagnetic burst are derived. The time dependence of the burst shape for an infinitely distant observer and the maximum energy of relativistic particles accelerated by an electric field are numerically calculated. The objects under consideration are of particular interest because particles in their vicinity can be accelerated up to the Planck energies. Possible astrophysical applications to the theory of active galactic nuclei (AGNs) and QSOs are briefly discussed. It is shown for the first time that a spinar can be produced by a merger of neutron stars; this possibility is considered in and without connection with the formation of gamma-ray bursts.