Physics in Ultra-Strong Magnetic Fields. Issue Volume 16:Issue S363(2020) (June 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Harding, Alice K.
• Editors: Troja, Eleonora; Baring, Matthew G.
• Is Part Of: Proceedings of the International Astronomical Union. Volume 16:Issue S363(2020)
• Page Start: 149
• Page End: 161
• Publication Date: 2020-06
• Subjects: stars: neutron -- magnetic fields -- polarization -- radiation mechanisms: nonthermal; Astronomy -- Congresses; Astronomy -- Periodicals; 520
• DOI: 10.1017/S1743921322000886
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1743-9213

Abstract

Abstract: Several populations of neutron stars have surface magnetic fields above the critical strength of 4.4 × 10 13 G where the electron cyclotron energy equals its rest mass. These include high-field rotation-powered pulsars, X-ray dim isolated neutron stars (XDIN), and magnetars. In such ultra-strong fields, quantum effects in physical processes as well as additional exotic Quantum Electrodynamic processes only occurring at these high field strengths have a significant influence on the emitted radiation. Although very strong magnetic fields play a critical role both inside and outside of neutron stars, I will review primarily processes that operate in the neutron star magnetospheres and how they influence the observed radiation.