Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
1998-03-17
Nature 393:139-141,1998
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
To appear in Nature. Press embargo till published
Scientific paper
RADIO pulsars are thought to born with spin periods of 0.02-0.5 s and space velocities of 100-1000 km/s, and they are inferred to have initial dipole magnetic fields of 10^{11}-10^{13}. The average space velocity of a normal star in the Milky Way is only 30 km/s, which means that pulsars must receive a substantial 'kick' at birth. Here we propose that the birth characteristics of pulsars have a simple physical connection with each other. Magnetic fields maintained by differential rotation between the core and envelope of the progenitor would keep the whole star in a state of approximately uniform rotation until 10 years before the explosion. Such a slowly rotating core has 1000 times less angular momentum than required to explain the rotation of pulsars. Although the specific physical process that 'kicks' the neutron star at birth has not been identified, unless its force is exerted exactly head-on, it will also cause the neutron star to rotate. We identify this process as the origin of the spin of pulsars. Such kicks will cause a correlation between the velocity and spin vectors of pulsars. We predict that many neutron stars are born with periods longer than 2 s, and never become radio pulsars.
Phinney Sterl E.
Spruit Hendrik
No associations
LandOfFree
Why pulsars rotate and move: kicks at birth does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Why pulsars rotate and move: kicks at birth, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Why pulsars rotate and move: kicks at birth will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-438909