Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
Apr 1954
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1954phrv...94..440m&link_type=abstract
Physical Review, vol. 94, Issue 2, pp. 440-453
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
51
Scientific paper
The isotropy and composition of the primary cosmic radiation suggest that cosmic rays are trapped within the galaxy for an average time of the order of 106 years,-a long time compared with the time of escape along straight-line paths, but short compared with the mean life against nuclear collisions with interstellar matter. If one accepts this conclusion, it appears possible to account for the observed properties of cosmic rays under the assumption that cosmic rays acquire their large energies through a gradual acceleration in space, such as suggested by Fermi. In contrast to the original Fermi theory (which denied any possibility of escape from the galaxy), we now find that the energy spectra of protons and heavier nuclei are approximately the same, and that the required injection energies are very modest for all components. We are obliged, however, to assume a much faster rate of acceleration than the original theory required. In this paper we develop in some detail the consequences of the above assumptions on the basis of a specific model, describing the motion of cosmic rays through the galaxy as a random motion between scattering centers represented by moving magnetized clouds. We briefly discuss the astrophysical implications of our assumptions and the plausibility of the model.
Morrison Philip
Olbert Stanislaw
Rossi Bruno B.
No associations
LandOfFree
The Origin of Cosmic Rays 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 The Origin of Cosmic Rays, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and The Origin of Cosmic Rays will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1248529