Gamma-Ray Bursts Polarization
Abstract
We review the current observational and theoretical status of the polarization measurements of Gamma-ray Bursts at all wavelengths. Gamma-Ray Bursts are thought to be produced by an ultra-relativistic jet, possibly powered by a black hole. One of the most important open point is the composition of the jet: the energy may be carried out from the central source either as kinetic energy (of baryons and/or pairs), or in electromagnetic form (Poynting flux). The polarization properties are expected to help disentangling main energy carrier. The prompt emission and afterglow polarization are also a powerful diagnostic of the jet geometry.
- Publication:
-
New Frontiers in Black Hole Astrophysics
- Pub Date:
- 2017
- DOI:
- Bibcode:
- 2017IAUS..324...54G
- Keywords:
-
- Polarization;
- gamma rays: bursts;
- gamma rays: observations;
- techniques: photometric