Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
2007-07-05
J.Quant.Spectrosc.Radiat.Trans.106:225-256,2007
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
51 pages, 20 figures, differs in format from the published article, abstract is shortened
Scientific paper
10.1016/j.jqsrt.2007.01.038
Magnetic fields play a crucial role in various astrophysical processes, including star formation, accretion of matter, transport processes (e.g., transport of heat), and cosmic rays. One of the easiest ways to determine the magnetic field direction is via polarization of radiation resulting from extinction on or/and emission by aligned dust grains. Reliability of interpretation of the polarization maps in terms of magnetic fields depends on how well we understand the grain-alignment theory. Currently the grain-alignment theory is a predictive one, and its results nicely match observations. Among its predictions is a subtle phenomenon of radiative torques. after having stayed in oblivion for many years after its discovery, is currently viewed as the most powerful means of alignment. In this article, I shall review the basic physical processes involved in grain alignment, and the currently known mechanisms of alignment. I shall also discuss possible niches for different alignment mechanisms. I shall dwell on the importance of the concept of grain helicity for understanding of many properties of grain alignment, and shall demonstrate that rather arbitrarily shaped grains exhibit helicity when they interact with gaseous flows and radiative fluxes.
No associations
LandOfFree
Tracing Magnetic Fields with Aligned Grains 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 Tracing Magnetic Fields with Aligned Grains, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Tracing Magnetic Fields with Aligned Grains will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-570021