Clusters of galaxies: magnetic fields

Clusters of galaxies are the largest gravitationally bound objects in the universe. Their potential wells hold large amounts of hot gas which can be detected through its X-ray emission. Recent work with the VLA has found that magnetic fields are dynamically important in the cores of these clusters. That is, the magnetic fields play a critical role in supporting the gas against the gravitational force of the cluster. The fact that the fields are ordered on relatively large scales tells us that turbulent dynamos are important in maintaining the fields. We have also learned that the cluster itself must still be evolving; kinetic energy from recent cluster evolution, or merging, is needed to maintain the fields at the levels we see. My recent work here includes VLA observations of magnetic field strength in two rich clusters, and calculations of the effect of turbulent, helical dynamos in cluster cores. I am presently investigating connections between gas turbulence and magnetic support in cluster cores.

Some of my work in this area is in collaboration with:

F. N. Owen (NRAO)

References:

Magnetic Fields Clusters: Faraday Rotation in A400 and A2634

Dynamo Supported Magnetic Fields in Clusters of Galaxies

Research

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