Fermi acceleration and the structure of interstellar turbulence

Recent observations at length scales of at least about 10 to the 18th cm and about 10 to the 11th cm suggest the possibility of a generally turbulent interstellar gas with a Kolmogorov spectrum. The total r.m.s. fluctuation in fluid properties is of the same order as the mean. The consequences of such a turbulence spectrum for cosmic rays are discussed. If the turbulence is composed of Alfven waves propagating in both directions along the average magnetic field, the rate of Fermi acceleration is found to be significant. Consequences of the turbulence for spatial transport and the general dynamics of the interstellar gas, as well as possible energy sources for the turbulence, are discussed. It is concluded that Fermi acceleration by interstellar turbulence is a possible acceleration mechanism for galactic cosmic rays.