Depolarization in the Galactic Center Snake (G359.1-0.2) and Several Other Radio Nonthermal Filaments
Abstract
We present a complete, multi-frequency radio study of the Snake radio nonthermal filament (G359.1-0.2 NTF) located in the Galactic Center (GC). Observations with resolutions as high as 3" were carried out with the Very Large Array. We focus on understanding the nature of the significant wavelength-dependent depolarization along the Snake NTF. Similar multi-frequency radio studies of the so-called "Curved" NTF (G359.79+0.17) and the Pelican NTF (G358.85+0.47) show some differences in their depolarization characteristics, leading us to suggest that the depolarization properties are related to the immediate local environment of the NTFs. In addition, we discuss the large values for the rotation measure (RM > 3000 rad m^-2), large gradients in the RM toward the Snake NTF and the intrinsic magnetic field orientation along this NTF. The depolarization in the Snake NTF is believed to be external to the NTF and attributed to large gradients in the external RM. Finally, we show some recent results on the correlations between radio and X-ray emission for the most prominent NTF systems in the GC using the new, sensitive Chandra X-ray survey of the GC.
- Publication:
-
American Astronomical Society Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- December 2007
- Bibcode:
- 2007AAS...211.1404L