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Sturm und Drang: The turbulent, magnetic tempest in the Galactic center

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  22 May 2014

Brian C. Lacki
Brian C. Lacki*
Affiliation:
Jansky Fellow of the National Radio Astronomy Observatory Institute for Advanced Study 1 Einstein Lane Princeton, NJ 08540, USA email: [email protected]
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Abstract

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The Galactic center central molecular zone (GCCMZ) bears similarities with extragalactic starburst regions, including a high supernova (SN) rate density. As in other starbursts like M82, the frequent SNe can heat the ISM until it is filled with a hot (∼ 4 × 107 K) superwind. Furthermore, the random forcing from SNe stirs up the wind, powering Mach 1 turbulence. I argue that a turbulent dynamo explains the strong magnetic fields in starbursts, and I predict an average B ∼70 μG in the GCCMZ. I demonstrate how the SN driving of the ISM leads to equipartition between various pressure components in the ISM. The SN-heated wind escapes the center, but I show that it may be stopped in the Galactic halo. I propose that the Fermi bubbles are the wind's termination shock.

Type
Contributed Papers
Information
Proceedings of the International Astronomical Union , Volume 9 , Symposium S303: The Galactic Center: Feeding and Feedback in a Normal Galactic Nucleus , October 2013 , pp. 395 - 398
Copyright
Copyright © International Astronomical Union 2014 

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