Astronomy & Astrophysics Seminar: Prompt-phase of GRBs: Implications from internal shocks

Zoom: https://tau-ac-il.zoom.us/j/87185167411?pwd=FpTUyIgXaOturzOFSetA6pPVYQilen.1

Abstract:

Internal shocks are one of the leading dissipation mechanisms for powering the prompt phase of Gamma-ray bursts (GRBs). The basic paradigm is that a central engine produces a variable outflow wherein the faster trailing material collides with the slower leading material at a distance from the engine. Each collision produces a pair of shock fronts, a reverse and a forward shock front propagating in the faster and the slower material respectively. In general, the physical conditions in both the shocked regions are very different. In my talk, I will show how starting from a few basic central engine parameters, a self-consistent hydrodynamic solution of both shocked regions provides ingredients for understanding the spectra and the light pulses of prompt-GRBs. I will also show how internal shocks in structured jets can give a unifying theme for classical GRBs (CGRBs), X-ray riches (XRRs), and  X-ray flashes (XRFs).

Seminar Organizer: Dr. Jonathan Stern