Neutron conversion–diffusion: a new model for structured short gamma-ray burst jets compatible with GRB 170817

ABSTRACT We present a generic theoretical model for the structuring of a relativistic jet propagating through the ejecta of a binary neutron star merger event, introducing the effects of the neutron conversion–diffusion, which provides a baryon flux propagating transversely from the ejecta towards t...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inMonthly notices of the Royal Astronomical Society Vol. 503; no. 2; pp. 2499 - 2513
Main Authors Preau, Edwan, Ioka, Kunihito, Mészáros, Peter
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Oxford University Press 01.05.2021
Oxford University Press (OUP): Policy P - Oxford Open Option A
Subjects
Astrophysics
Physics
radiation mechanisms: non-thermal
diffusion
plasmas
stars: neutron
gamma-rays: stars
gamma-ray bursts
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Summary:ABSTRACT We present a generic theoretical model for the structuring of a relativistic jet propagating through the ejecta of a binary neutron star merger event, introducing the effects of the neutron conversion–diffusion, which provides a baryon flux propagating transversely from the ejecta towards the jet axis. This results naturally in an increased baryon load structure of the outer jet with the approximate isotropic energy distribution Eiso(θ) ∝ θ−4, which is compatible with the first gravitational wave and short gamma-ray burst event GW170817/GRB 170817A observed at an off-axis angle of the jet.
ISSN:0035-8711
1365-2966
DOI:10.1093/mnras/stab652