The radial distribution of galactic gamma rays. II - The distribution of cosmic-ray electrons and nuclei in the outer galaxy
Abstract
In the present derivation of the radial distribution of high energy gamma-ray emissivity in the outer Milky Way, the kinematics of H I are used to construct column-density maps in various galactocentric distance ranges that are then used in combination with COS-B spacecraft gamma-ray data to determine emissivities in these distance ranges. The results obtained imply a hardening of the gamma-ray spectrum with increasing distance, and include an energy-dependent decrease that is interpreted as a steep gradient in the cosmic-ray electron density and a near constancy of the nuclear component. The galactic origin of electrons with energies of up to several hundreds of MeVs is confirmed.
- Publication:
-
Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Pub Date:
- June 1984
- Bibcode:
- 1984A&A...135...12B
- Keywords:
-
- Galactic Cosmic Rays;
- Gamma Ray Astronomy;
- Gamma Ray Spectra;
- High Energy Interactions;
- Interstellar Gas;
- Milky Way Galaxy;
- Cos-B Satellite;
- Electron Density (Concentration);
- Emission Spectra;
- High Energy Electrons;
- Nuclei (Nuclear Physics);
- Radial Distribution;
- Space Radiation