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Double layers and circuits in astrophysicsA simple circuit is applied to the energizing of auroral particles, to solar flares, and to intergalactic double radio sources. Application to the heliospheric current systems leads to the prediction of two double layers on the Sun's axis which may give radiations detectable from Earth. Double layers in space should be classified as a new type of celestial object. It is suggested that X-ray and gamma-ray bursts may be due to exploding double layers (although annihilation is an alternative energy source). The way the most used textbooks in astrophysics treat concepts like double layers, critical velocity, pinch effects and circuits was studied. It is found that students using these textbooks remain essentially ignorant of even the existence of these, although some of the phenomena were discovered 50 yr ago.
Document ID
19870005703
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Alfven, H.
(Royal Inst. of Tech. Stockholm, Sweden)
Date Acquired
September 5, 2013
Publication Date
May 1, 1986
Publication Information
ISSN: 0348-7539
Subject Category
Astrophysics
Report/Patent Number
TRITA-EPP-86-04
NAS 1.26:180018
NASA-CR-180018
Accession Number
87N15136
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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