The origin of the cosmic X-ray background

Details The origin of the cosmic X-ray background The origin of the cosmic X-ray background

Jan 1983

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1983sciam.248..104m&link_type=abstract

Scientific American, vol. 248, Jan. 1983, p. 104, 105, 108-119.

Physics

2

Background Radiation, Cosmic X Rays, Evolution (Development), Quasars, Bremsstrahlung, Cosmic Plasma, Density Distribution, High Temperature Plasmas, Intergalactic Media, Universe

Scientific paper

Whether the cosmic X-ray background originates in bremsstrahlungen from a hot intergalactic plasma or in emissions from a multitude of distant quasars, or a combination of the two, is discussed, and the consequences of the answer for the future evolution of the Universe are assessed. If a significant portion of the background is due to plasma, the critical density of the Universe may be exceeded and the Universe would be closed. The significant uncertainties involved in calculating the mass density of the intergalactic medium are addressed, and the mechanisms that can heat the gas to sufficient temperatures to generate bremsstrahlungen are discussed. The increasing evidence that the X-ray background is due to individual quasars is examined, including the problems caused by the possibility of the evolution of quasars. The potential of future X-ray observations resolving the controversy is assessed.

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