Long-Lived Positronium and AGN Jets. (24th September 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Giblin, John T.; Shertzer, Janine
• Other Names: Ding M. Academic Editor.; Henriksen R. N. Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: ISRN astronomy and astrophysics. Volume 2012(2012)
• Publication Date: 2012-09-24
• Subjects: Astronomy -- Periodicals; Astrophysics -- Periodicals; Astronomy; Astrophysics; Electronic journals; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 520
• DOI: 10.5402/2012/848476
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-4738

Abstract

Abstract : We suggest that stable states of positronium might exist in the jets of active galactic nuclei (AGN). Electrons and positrons are created near the accretion disks of supermassive black holes at the centers of AGN and are accelerated along magnetic field lines while within the Alfvèn radius. The conditions in this region are ideal for the creation of bound states of positronium which are stable against annihilation. Traveling at relativistic speeds along the jet, the helical magnetic field enables the atoms to survive for great distances.