Relativistic Flows in Astrophysics

Description

The topic of this book is the study of relativistic outflows such as those seen in gamma-ray bursts, microquasars and active galactic nuclei. The book starts with lectures on physical processes relevant to all astrophysical systems exhibiting relativistic flows. Further lectures concentrate on more specific aspects such as various mechanisms for particle acceleration and radiation from relativistically moving sources. This volume will thus be of interest to postgraduate students and nonspecialist researchers as a tutorial introduction to this subject as well as for the experienced researcher looking for a modern source of reference. Radiative Processes in Relativistic Outflows....Pages 1-23 Particle Acceleration at Relativistic Shocks....Pages 24-40 Jet Formation and Collimation....Pages 41-70 The Evolution of Classical Double Radio Galaxies....Pages 71-87 Blazars....Pages 88-100 Relativistic Outflows from X-ray Binaries (‘Microquasars’)....Pages 101-122 Gamma-Ray Bursts: The Afterglow Revolution....Pages 123-168 Observations and Simulations of Relativistic Jets....Pages 169-196 3D Relativistic Hydrodynamics....Pages 197-226 Epilogue....Pages 227-237