# Posts Tagged particle acceleration

## Today's Postings

### Dust Production and Particle Acceleration in Supernova 1987A Revealed with ALMA

Supernova (SN) explosions are crucial engines driving the evolution of galaxies by shock heating gas, increasing the metallicity, creating dust, and accelerating energetic particles. In 2012 we used the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array to observe SN 1987A, one of the best-observed supernovae since the invention of the telescope. We present spatially resolved images at 450um, 870um, 1.4mm, and 2.8mm, an important transition wavelength range. Longer wavelength emission is dominated by synchrotron radiation from shock-accelerated particles, shorter wavelengths by emission from the largest mass of dust measured in a supernova remnant (>0.2Msun). For the first time we show unambiguously that this dust has formed in the inner ejecta (the cold remnants of the exploded star’s core). The dust emission is concentrated to the center of the remnant, so the dust has not yet been affected by the shocks. If a significant fraction survives, and if SN 1987A is typical, supernovae are important cosmological dust producers.

### Pulsar wind model for the spin-down behavior of intermittent pulsars

It is observed that intermittent pulsars have higher slow down rate in the on state (radio-loud) than in the off state (radio-quiet). This gives the evidence that particle wind may play an important role in pulsar spindown. The effect of particle acceleration is included in modeling the rotational energy loss rate. Applying the pulsar wind model to the three intermittent pulsars (PSR B1931+24, PSR J1841-0500, and PSR J1832+0029), we calculate their magnetic field and inclination angle simultaneously. The braking index of intermittent pulsars is also predicted. The duty cycle of particle wind determined from timing observations is consistent with the duty cycle of the on state. It is shown that the particle number density may always be the Goldreich-Julian density. This may ensure that different on states of intermittent pulsars are stable. Observations on the inclination angle and braking index of intermittent pulsars may help to test different models of particle acceleration, as well as different models of pulsar magnetosphere. At present, the inverse Compton scattering induced space charge limited flow with field saturation model could already be ruled out.

### The Origin of Galactic Cosmic Rays

One century ago Viktor Hess carried out several balloon flights that led him to conclude that the penetrating radiation responsible for the discharge of electroscopes was of extraterrestrial origin. One century from the discovery of this phenomenon seems to be a good time to stop and think about what we have understood about Cosmic Rays. The aim of this review is to illustrate the ideas that have been and are being explored in order to account for the observable quantities related to cosmic rays and to summarize the numerous new pieces of observation that are becoming available. In fact, despite the possible impression that development in this field is somewhat slow, the rate of new discoveries in the last decade or so has been impressive, and mainly driven by beautiful pieces of observation. At the same time scientists in this field have been able to propose new, fascinating ways to investigate particle acceleration inside the sources, making use of multifrequency observations that range from the radio, to the optical, to X-rays and gamma rays. These ideas can now be confronted with data. I will mostly focus on supernova remnants as the most plausible sources of Galactic cosmic rays, and I will review the main aspects of the modern theory of diffusive particle acceleration at supernova remnant shocks, with special attention for the dynamical reaction of accelerated particles on the shock and the phenomenon of magnetic field amplification at the shock. Cosmic ray escape from the sources is discussed as a necessary step to determine the spectrum of cosmic rays at the Earth. In the end of this review I will also discuss the phenomenon of cosmic ray acceleration at shocks propagating in partially ionized media and the implications of this phenomenon in terms of width of the Balmer line emission.

### The Origin of Galactic Cosmic Rays [Replacement]

One century ago Viktor Hess carried out several balloon flights that led him to conclude that the penetrating radiation responsible for the discharge of electroscopes was of extraterrestrial origin. One century from the discovery of this phenomenon seems to be a good time to stop and think about what we have understood about Cosmic Rays. The aim of this review is to illustrate the ideas that have been and are being explored in order to account for the observable quantities related to cosmic rays and to summarize the numerous new pieces of observation that are becoming available. In fact, despite the possible impression that development in this field is somewhat slow, the rate of new discoveries in the last decade or so has been impressive, and mainly driven by beautiful pieces of observation. At the same time scientists in this field have been able to propose new, fascinating ways to investigate particle acceleration inside the sources, making use of multifrequency observations that range from the radio, to the optical, to X-rays and gamma rays. These ideas can now be confronted with data. I will mostly focus on supernova remnants as the most plausible sources of Galactic cosmic rays, and I will review the main aspects of the modern theory of diffusive particle acceleration at supernova remnant shocks, with special attention for the dynamical reaction of accelerated particles on the shock and the phenomenon of magnetic field amplification at the shock. Cosmic ray escape from the sources is discussed as a necessary step to determine the spectrum of cosmic rays at the Earth. In the end of this review I will also discuss the phenomenon of cosmic ray acceleration at shocks propagating in partially ionized media and the implications of this phenomenon in terms of width of the Balmer line emission.

### Origin of Nonthermal Emission from the Fermi Bubbles and Mechanisms of Particle Acceleration There

We analyse processes of particle acceleration in the Fermi Bubbles. The goal of our investigations is to obtain restrictions for acceleration mechanisms. Our analysis of the three processes: acceleration from background plasma, re-acceleration of relativistic electrons emitted by supernova remnants, and acceleration by shocks generated by processes of star tidal disruption in the Galactic Center, showed that the model of multi-shock acceleration does not have serious objections at present and therefore seems us more attractive than others.

### Particle acceleration by shocks in supernova remnants

Particle acceleration occurs on a range of scales from AU in the heliosphere to Mpc in clusters of galaxies and to energies ranging from MeV to EeV. A number of acceleration processes have been proposed, but diffusive shock acceleration (DSA) is widely invoked as the predominant mechanism. DSA operates on all these scales and probably to the highest energies. DSA is simple, robust and predicts a universal spectrum. However there are still many unknowns regarding particle acceleration. This paper focuses on the particular question of whether supernova remnants (SNR) can produce the Galactic CR spectrum up to the knee at a few PeV. The answer depends in large part on the detailed physics of diffusive shock acceleration.

### Linking accretion flow and particle acceleration in jets - II. Self-similar jet models with full relativistic MHD gravitational mass

We present a new, semi-analytic formalism to model the acceleration and collimation of relativistic jets in a gravitational potential. The gravitational energy density includes the kinetic, thermal, and electromagnetic mass contributions. The solutions are close to self-similar throughout the integration, from very close to the black hole to the region where gravity is unimportant. The field lines are tied to the conditions very close to the central object and eventually overcollimate, possibly leading to a collimation shock. This collimation shock could provide the conditions for diffusive shock acceleration, leading to the observed electron populations with a power-law energy distribution in jets. We provide the derivation, a detailed analysis of a solution, and describe the effects the parameters have on the properties of the solutions, such as the Lorentz factor and location of the collimation shock. We also discuss the deviations from self-similarity. By comparing the new gravity term with the gravity term obtained from a non-relativistic formalism in a previous work, we show they are equivalent in the non-relativistic limit. This equivalence shows the approach taken in that work is valid and allows us to comment on its limitations.

### Vortical field amplification and particle acceleration at rippled shocks

Supernova Remnants (SNRs) shocks are believed to accelerate charged particles and to generate strong turbulence in the post-shock flow. From high-energy observations in the past decade, a magnetic field at SNR shocks largely exceeding the shock-compressed interstellar field has been inferred. We outline how such a field amplification results from a small-scale dynamo process downstream of the shock, providing an explicit expression for the turbulence back-reaction to the fluid whirling. The spatial scale of the $X-$ray rims and the short time-variability can be obtained by using reasonable parameters for the interstellar turbulence. We show that such a vortical field saturation is faster than the acceleration time of the synchrotron emitting energetic electrons.

### Three-dimensional relativistic pair plasma reconnection with radiative feedback in the Crab Nebula

The discovery of rapid synchrotron gamma-ray flares above 100 MeV from the Crab Nebula has attracted new interest in alternative particle acceleration mechanisms in pulsar wind nebulae. Diffuse shock-acceleration fails to explain the flares because particle acceleration and emission occur during a single or even sub-Larmor timescale. In this regime, the synchrotron energy losses induce a drag force on the particle motion that balances the electric acceleration and prevents the emission of synchrotron radiation above 160 MeV. Previous analytical studies and 2D particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations indicate that relativistic reconnection is a viable mechanism to circumvent the above difficulties. The reconnection electric field localized at X-points linearly accelerates particles with little radiative energy losses. In this paper, we check whether this mechanism survives in 3D, using a set of large PIC simulations with radiation reaction force and with a guide field. In agreement with earlier works, we find that the relativistic drift kink instability deforms and then disrupts the layer, resulting in significant plasma heating but few non-thermal particles. A moderate guide field stabilizes the layer and enables particle acceleration. We report that 3D magnetic reconnection can accelerate particles above the standard radiation reaction limit, although the effect is less pronounced than in 2D with no guide field. We confirm that the highest energy particles form compact bunches within magnetic flux ropes, and a beam tightly confined within the reconnection layer, which could result in the observed Crab flares when, by chance, the beam crosses our line of sight.

### Cosmic Ray acceleration and Balmer emission from RCW 86 (G315.4-2.3)

Context. Observation of Balmer lines from the region around the forward shock of supernova remnants may provide precious information on the shock dynamics and on the efficiency of particle acceleration at the shock. Aims. We calculate the Balmer line emission and the shape of the broad Balmer line for parameters values suitable for SNR RCW 86 (G315.4-2.3), as a function of the cosmic ray (CR) acceleration efficiency and of the level of thermal equilibration between electrons and protons behind the shock. This calculation aims at using the width of the broad Balmer line emission to infer the CR acceleration efficiency in this remnant. Methods. We use the recently developed non-linear theory of diffusive shock acceleration in the presence of neutrals. The semi-analytical approach that we have developed includes a description of magnetic field amplification as due to resonant streaming instability, the dynamical reaction of both accelerated particles and turbulent magnetic field on the shock, and all channels of interaction between neutral hydrogen atoms and background ions that are relevant for the shock dynamics. Results. We derive from Balmer emission the CR acceleration efficiency in the SNR RCW 86. Since our calculation uses recent measurements of the shock proper motion, the results depend on the assumed distance to Earth. For a distance of 2 kpc the measured width of the broad Balmer line is compatible with the absence of CR acceleration. For a distance of 2.5 kpc, which is a widely used value in current literature, a CR acceleration efficiency of 5-30% is obtained, depending upon the electron-ion equilibration and the ionization fraction upstream of the shock. When information on Balmer emission is combined with the measured value of the downstream electron temperature, the CR acceleration efficiency can be constrained to be ~20%.

### Particle acceleration by binary black holes

We explore multi-black hole spacetimes from the perspective of ultra-high energy particle collisions. Such a discussion is limited to spacetimes containing single black hole so far. We deal with Majumdar-Papapetrou solution representing binary system consisting of two identical black holes. We consider particles following timelike geodesics that are confined to move on equatorial plane towards the axis of symmetry. We consider collision between two particles moving in the opposite directions at the location midway between the black holes on the axis. We show that the center of mass energy of collision between the particles increases with the decrease in the separation between the black holes and shows divergence in the limit where separation goes to zero. Whether or not high energy collisions can occur in the more general setting like colliding black holes, in the intermediate region when distance the black holes is small can in principle be verified in the numerical relativity simulations.

### Particle acceleration by binary black holes [Cross-Listing]

We explore multi-black hole spacetimes from the perspective of ultra-high energy particle collisions. Such a discussion is limited to spacetimes containing single black hole so far. We deal with Majumdar-Papapetrou solution representing binary system consisting of two identical black holes. We consider particles following timelike geodesics that are confined to move on equatorial plane towards the axis of symmetry. We consider collision between two particles moving in the opposite directions at the location midway between the black holes on the axis. We show that the center of mass energy of collision between the particles increases with the decrease in the separation between the black holes and shows divergence in the limit where separation goes to zero. Whether or not high energy collisions can occur in the more general setting like colliding black holes, in the intermediate region when distance the black holes is small can in principle be verified in the numerical relativity simulations.

### Particle Acceleration Around 5-dimensional Kerr Black Hole [Replacement]

On the lines of the 4-dimensional Kerr black hole we consider the particle acceleration near a 5-dimensional Kerr black hole which has the two rotation parameters. It turns out that the center of mass energy of the two equal mass colliding particles as expected diverges for the extremal black hole and there is a symmetry in the results for $\theta = 0, \pi/2$. Because of the two rotation parameters, $r=0$ can be a horizon without being a curvature singularity. It is shown that the acceleration of particles to high energies near the 5-D extreme rotating black hole avoids fine-tuning of the angular momentum of particles.

### Particle Acceleration Around 5-dimensional Kerr Black Hole

On the lines of the 4-dimensional Kerr black hole we consider the particle acceleration near a 5-dimensional Kerr black hole which has the two rotation parameters. It turns out that the center of mass energy of the two equal mass colliding particles as expected diverges for the extremal black hole and there is a symmetry in the results for $\theta = 0, \pi/2$. Because of the two rotation parameters, $r=0$ can be a horizon without being a curvature singularity. It is shown that the acceleration of particles to high energies near the 5-D extreme rotating black hole avoids fine-tuning of the angular momentum of particles.

### Particle Acceleration Around 5-dimensional Kerr Black Hole [Replacement]

On the lines of the 4-dimensional Kerr black hole we consider the particle acceleration near a 5-dimensional Kerr black hole which has the two rotation parameters. It turns out that the center of mass energy of the two equal mass colliding particles as expected diverges for the extremal black hole and there is a symmetry in the results for $\theta = 0, \pi/2$. Because of the two rotation parameters, $r=0$ can be a horizon without being a curvature singularity. It is shown that the acceleration of particles to high energies near the 5-D extreme rotating black hole avoids fine-tuning of the angular momentum of particles.

### Simulations of ion acceleration at non-relativistic shocks: i) Acceleration efficiency

We use 2D and 3D hybrid (kinetic ions – fluid electrons) simulations to investigate particle acceleration and magnetic field amplification at non-relativistic astrophysical shocks. We show that diffusive shock acceleration operates for quasi-parallel configurations (i.e., when the background magnetic field is almost aligned with the shock normal) and, for large sonic and Alfv\’enic Mach numbers, produces universal power-law spectra proportional to p^(-4), where p is the particle momentum. The maximum energy of accelerated ions increases with time, and it is only limited by finite box size and run time. Acceleration is mainly efficient for parallel and quasi-parallel strong shocks, where 10-20% of the bulk kinetic energy can be converted to energetic particles, and becomes ineffective for quasi-perpendicular shocks. Also, the generation of magnetic turbulence correlates with efficient ion acceleration, and vanishes for quasi-perpendicular configurations. At very oblique shocks, ions can be accelerated via shock drift acceleration, but they only gain a factor of a few in momentum, and their maximum energy does not increase with time. These findings are consistent with the degree of polarization and the morphology of the radio and X-ray synchrotron emission observed, for instance, in the remnant of SN 1006. We also discuss the transition from thermal to non-thermal particles in the ion spectrum (supra-thermal region), and we identify two dynamical signatures peculiar of efficient particle acceleration, namely the formation of an upstream precursor and the alteration of standard shock jump conditions.

### Simulations of ion acceleration at non-relativistic shocks: i) Acceleration efficiency [Replacement]

We use 2D and 3D hybrid (kinetic ions – fluid electrons) simulations to investigate particle acceleration and magnetic field amplification at non-relativistic astrophysical shocks. We show that diffusive shock acceleration operates for quasi-parallel configurations (i.e., when the background magnetic field is almost aligned with the shock normal) and, for large sonic and Alfv\’enic Mach numbers, produces universal power-law spectra proportional to p^(-4), where p is the particle momentum. The maximum energy of accelerated ions increases with time, and it is only limited by finite box size and run time. Acceleration is mainly efficient for parallel and quasi-parallel strong shocks, where 10-20% of the bulk kinetic energy can be converted to energetic particles, and becomes ineffective for quasi-perpendicular shocks. Also, the generation of magnetic turbulence correlates with efficient ion acceleration, and vanishes for quasi-perpendicular configurations. At very oblique shocks, ions can be accelerated via shock drift acceleration, but they only gain a factor of a few in momentum, and their maximum energy does not increase with time. These findings are consistent with the degree of polarization and the morphology of the radio and X-ray synchrotron emission observed, for instance, in the remnant of SN 1006. We also discuss the transition from thermal to non-thermal particles in the ion spectrum (supra-thermal region), and we identify two dynamical signatures peculiar of efficient particle acceleration, namely the formation of an upstream precursor and the alteration of standard shock jump conditions.

### Implosion of coronal loops during the impulsive phase of a solar flare

We study the relationship between implosive motions in a solar flare, and the energy redistribution in the form of oscillatory structures and particle acceleration. The flare SOL2012-03-09T03:53 (M6.4) shows clear evidence for an irreversible (stepwise) coronal implosion. Extreme-ultraviolet (EUV) images show at least four groups of coronal loops at different heights overlying the flaring core undergoing fast contraction during the impulsive phase of the flare. These contractions start around a minute after the flare onset, and the rate of contraction is closely associated with the intensity of the hard X-ray (HXR) and microwave emissions. They also seem to have a close relationship with the dimming associated with the formation of the Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) and a global EUV wave. Several studies now have detected contracting motions in the corona during solar flares that can be interpreted as the implosion necessary to release energy. Our results confirm this, and tighten the association with the flare impulsive phase. We add to the phenomenology by noting the presence of oscillatory variations revealed by GOES soft X-rays (SXR) and spatially-integrated EUV emission at 94 and 335 {\AA}. We identify pulsations of $\approx 60$ seconds in SXR and EUV data, which we interpret as persistent, semi-regular compressions of the flaring core region which modulate the plasma temperature and emission measure. The loop oscillations, observed over a large region, also allow us to provide rough estimates of the energy temporarily stored in the eigenmodes of the active-region structure as it approaches its new equilibrium.

### Thermal X-ray Spectra of Supernova Remnants

The fast shocks that characterize supernova remnants heat circumstellar and ejecta material to extremely high temperatures, resulting in significant X-ray emission. The X-ray spectrum from an SNR carries a wealth of information about the temperature and ionization state of the plasma, the density distribution of the postshock material, and the composition of the ejecta. This, in turn, places strong constraints on the properties of the progenitor star, the explosive nucleosynthesis that produced the remnant, the properties of the environment into which the SNR expands, and the effects of particle acceleration on its dynamical evolution. Here I present results from X-ray studies SNRs in various evolutionary states, and highlight key results inferred from the thermal emission.

### Magnetic Field Amplification and Blazar Flares

Recent multiwavelength observations of PKS 0208-512 by SMARTS, Fermi, and Swift revealed that gamma-ray and optical light curves of this flat spectrum radio quasars are highly correlated, but with an exception of one large optical flare having no corresponding gamma-ray activity or even detection. On the other hand, recent advances in SNRs observations and plasma simulations both reveal that magnetic field downstream of astrophysical shocks can be largely amplified beyond simple shock compression. These amplifications, along with their associated particle acceleration, might contribute to blazar flares, including the peculiar flare of PKS 0208-512. Using our time dependent multizone blazar emission code, we evaluate several scenarios that may represent such phenomena. This code combines Monte Carlo method that tracks the radiative processes including inverse Compton scattering, and Fokker-Planck equation that follows the cooling and acceleration of particles. It is a comprehensive time dependent code that fully takes into account the light travel time effects. In this study, both the changes of the magnetic field and acceleration efficiency are explored as the cause of blazar flares. Under these assumption, synchrotron self-Compton and external Compton scenarios produce distinct features that favor the external Compton scenario. The optical flares with/without gamma-ray counterparts can be explained by different allocations of energy between the magnetization and particle acceleration, which in turn can be affected by the relative orientation between the magnetic field and the shock flow. We compare the details of the observations and simulation, and highlight what implications this study has on our understanding of relativistic jets.

### A Chandra View Of Nonthermal Emission In The Northwestern Region Of Supernova Remnant RCW 86: Particle Acceleration And Magnetic Fields

The shocks of supernova remnants (SNRs) are believed to accelerate particles to cosmic ray (CR) energies. The amplification of the magnetic field due to CRs propagating in the shock region is expected to have an impact on both the emission from the accelerated particle population, as well as the acceleration process itself. Using a 95 ks observation with the Advanced CCD Imaging Spectrometer (ACIS) onboard the Chandra X-ray Observatory, we map and characterize the synchrotron emitting material in the northwestern region of RCW 86. We model spectra from several different regions, filamentary and diffuse alike, where emission appears dominated by synchrotron radiation. The fine spatial resolution of Chandra allows us to obtain accurate emission profiles across 3 different non-thermal rims in this region. The narrow width (l = 10”-30”) of these filaments constrains the minimum magnetic field strength at the post-shock region to be approximately 80 {\mu}G.

### Particle acceleration and dynamics of double-double radio galaxies: theory vs. observations

In this paper we show that a small sample of radio galaxies with evidence for multiple epochs of jet activity (so-called double-double’ radio galaxies) have the same electron injection spectral index in the two activity episodes, a result which might be considered surprising given the very different lobe dynamics expected in the first and second episode. We construct models for the dynamics of radio galaxies, with an emphasis on their episodic behaviour, and show that hotspot formation and confinement of lobes for the inner double of double-double radio galaxies are possible even without any thermal matter in the outer cocoon. We argue that (i) the observed similar injection spectral indices are due to similar jet powers in the two episodes, (ii) the spectral index–radio power’ correlation of a flux limited sample of radio galaxies is the primary one, and not the `spectral index–redshift correlation’, (iii) jets are made of pair plasma and not electron-proton, (iv) and the Lorentz factor of the spine of the jet should be $\gapp 10$ to explain the observations. Furthermore, we argue that the observations show that higher power radio galaxies do not have a higher jet bulk Lorentz factors, but instead simply have a higher number density of particles in the jet rest frame. A consequence of our models is that aligned double-double radio galaxies with very old ($\gapp10^8$ yr) outer doubles, or misaligned double-double radio galaxies, are statistically more likely to have dissimilar injection indices in two different episodes, as they will probably have different jet powers.

### Modelling the Kinked Jet of the Crab Nebula

We investigate the dynamical propagation of the South-East jet from the Crab pulsar interacting with supernova ejecta by means of three-dimensional relativistic MHD numerical simulations with the PLUTO code. The initial jet structure is set up from the inner regions of the Crab Nebula. We study the evolution of hot, relativistic hollow outflows initially carrying a purely azimuthal magnetic field. Our jet models are characterized by different choices of the outflow magnetization ($\sigma$ parameter) and the bulk Lorentz factor ($\gamma_{j}$). We show that the jet is heavily affected by the growth of current-driven kink instabilities causing considerable deflection throughout its propagation length. This behavior is partially stabilized by the combined action of larger flow velocities and/or reduced magnetic field strengths. We find that our best jet models are characterized by relatively large values of $\sigma$ ($\gtrsim 1$) and small values of $\gamma_{j}\simeq 2$. Our results are in good agreement with the recent X-ray (\textit{Chandra}) data of the Crab Nebula South-East jet indicating that the jet changes direction of propagation on a time scale of the order of few years. The 3D models presented here may have important implications in the investigation of particle acceleration in relativistic outflows.

### Cosmic Rays in the Milky Way and Beyond

Cosmic rays (CRs) are the probes of the deep space. They allow us to study particle acceleration, chemical composition of the interstellar medium, and global properties of our Galaxy. However, until recently studies of CRs were similar to astronomical observations with blurred lenses that capture only the integral brightness of all stars in the field of view. Thanks to the recent technological developments, our "lenses" are now capable of capturing sharp images and making precise measurements of all CR species. We have a full range of unique instrumentation for direct measurements of CRs in space and for multi-wavelength observations of their emissions and more missions are coming. The unveiling picture is astonishing. This paper gives a short overview of very exciting developments in astrophysics of CRs in the Milky Way and in other star-forming galaxies.

### Monte Carlo Simulations of Nonlinear Particle Acceleration in Parallel Trans-relativistic Shocks [Cross-Listing]

We present results from a Monte Carlo simulation of a parallel collisionless shock undergoing particle acceleration. Our simulation, which contains parameterized scattering and a particular thermal leakage injection model, calculates the feedback between accelerated particles ahead of the shock, which influence the shock precursor and "smooth" the shock, and thermal particle injection. We show that there is a transition between nonrelativistic shocks, where the acceleration efficiency can be extremely high and the nonlinear compression ratio can be substantially greater than the Rankine-Hugoniot value, and fully relativistic shocks, where diffusive shock acceleration is less efficient and the compression ratio remains at the Rankine-Hugoniot value. This transition occurs in the trans-relativistic regime and, for the particular parameters we use, occurs around a shock Lorentz factor = 1.5. We also find that nonlinear shock smoothing dramatically reduces the acceleration efficiency presumed to occur with large-angle scattering in ultra-relativistic shocks. Our ability to seamlessly treat the transition from ultra-relativistic to trans-relativistic to nonrelativistic shocks may be important for evolving relativistic systems, such as gamma-ray bursts and type Ibc supernovae. We expect a substantial evolution of shock accelerated spectra during this transition from soft early on to much harder when the blast-wave shock becomes nonrelativistic.

### Nonthermal radiation of young supernova remnants: the case of Cas A

The processes responsible for the broad-band radiation of the young supernova remnant Cas A are explored using a new code which is designed for a detailed treatment of the diffusive shock acceleration of particles in nonlinear regime. The model is based on spherically symmetric hydrodynamic equations complemented with transport equations for relativistic particles. Electrons, protons and the oxygen ions accelerated by forward and reverse shocks are included in the numerical calculations. We show that the available multi-wavelength observations in the radio, X-ray and gamma-ray bands can be best explained by invoking particle acceleration by both forward and reversed shocks. Although the TeV gamma-ray observations can be interpreted by interactions of both accelerated electrons and protons/ions, the measurements by Fermi LAT at energies below 1 GeV give a tentative preference to the hadronic origin of gamma-rays. Then, the acceleration efficiency in this source, despite the previous claims, should be very high; 25% of the explosion energy (or approximately $3\cdot 10^{50}$ erg) should already be converted to cosmic rays, mainly by the forward shock. At the same time, the model calculations do not provide extension of the maximum energy of accelerated protons beyond 100 TeV. In this model, the acceleration of electrons is dominated by the reverse shock; the required $10^{48}$ erg can be achieved under the assumption that the injection of electrons (positrons) is supported by the radioactive decay of $^{44}$Ti.

### Catalogue of particle-accelerating colliding-wind binaries

Massive systems made of two or more stars are known to be the site for interesting physical processes — including at least in some cases — particle acceleration. Over the past decade, this topic motivated a particular effort to unveil the properties of these systems and characterize the circumstances responsible for the acceleration of particles and the potential role of pre-supernova massive stars in the production of high energy particles in our Galaxy. Although previous studies on this topic were mostly devoted to processes in general, or to a few individual objects in particular, a unified target-oriented census of particle-accelerating colliding-wind binaries (hereafter PACWBs) does not exist yet. This paper aims at making a general and unified census of these systems, emphasizing their main properties. A general discussion includes energetic considerations along with wind properties in relation with non-thermal emission processes that are likely at work in colliding-wind binaries. Finally, some guidelines for future observational and theoretical studies are drawn.

### Fermi-LAT upper limits on gamma-ray emission from colliding wind binaries

Context: Colliding wind binaries (CWBs) are thought to give rise to a plethora of physical processes including acceleration and interaction of relativistic particles. Observation of synchrotron radiation in the radio band confirms there is a relativistic electron population in CWBs. Accordingly, CWBs have been suspected sources of high-energy gamma-ray emission since the COS-B era. Theoretical models exist that characterize the underlying physical processes leading to particle acceleration and quantitatively predict the non-thermal energy emission observable at Earth. Aims: We strive to find evidence of gamma-ray emission from a sample of seven CWB systems: WR 11, WR 70, WR 125, WR 137, WR 140, WR 146, and WR 147. Theoretical modelling identified these systems as the most favourable candidates for emitting gamma-rays. We make a comparison with existing gamma-ray flux predictions and investigate possible constraints. Methods: We used 24 months of data from the Large Area Telescope (LAT) on-board the Fermi Gamma Ray Space Telescope to perform a dedicated likelihood analysis of CWBs in the LAT energy range. Results: We find no evidence of gamma-ray emission from any of the studied CWB systems and determine corresponding flux upper limits. For some CWBs the interplay of orbital and stellar parameters renders the Fermi-LAT data not sensitive enough to constrain the parameter space of the emission models. In the cases of WR140 and WR147, the Fermi-LAT upper limits appear to rule out some model predictions entirely and constrain theoretical models over a significant parameter space. A comparison of our findings to the CWB eta Car is made.

### Fermi Rules Out the IC/CMB Model for the Large Scale Jet X-ray Emission of 3C 273

The source of the X-ray emission associated with the large-scale jets of powerful radio quasars has been a source of debate in recent years, with two competing interpretations: either the X-rays are of synchrotron origin, arising from a different electron energy distribution than that producing the radio- to-optical synchrotron component, or they are due to inverse Compton scattering of cosmic microwave background photons (IC/CMB) by relativistic electrons in a powerful relativistic jet with bulk Lorentz factor Gamma ~10 – 20. These two models imply radically different conditions in the large scale jet in terms of jet speed, kinetic power, and maximum energy of the particle acceleration mechanism, with important implications for the impact of the jet on the larger-scale environment. A large part of the X-ray origin debate has centered on the well-studied source 3C 273. Here we present new observations from Fermi which put an upper limit on the gamma-ray flux from the large-scale jet of 3C 273 (from 3 – 10 GeV) of 4.85×10^-13 erg s^-1 cm^-2. This upper limit violates by almost a factor of ten the flux expected from the IC/CMB X-ray model found by extrapolation of the UV to X-ray spectrum of knot A, thus ruling out the IC/CMB interpretation entirely for this source. Further, the upper limit from Fermi puts a limit on the Doppler beaming factor of at least delta <9, assuming equipartition fields, and possibly as low as delta <5 assuming no major deceleration of the jet from knots A through D1.

### Gamma-ray binaries and related systems

After initial claims and a long hiatus, it is now established that several binary stars emit high (0.1-100 GeV) and very high energy (>100 GeV) gamma rays. A new class has emerged called ‘gamma-ray binaries’, since most of their radiated power is emitted beyond 1 MeV. Accreting X-ray binaries, novae and a colliding wind binary (eta Car) have also been detected – ‘related systems’ that confirm the ubiquity of particle acceleration in astrophysical sources. Do these systems have anything in common ? What drives their high-energy emission ? How do the processes involved compare to those in other sources of gamma rays: pulsars, active galactic nuclei, supernova remnants ? I review the wealth of observational and theoretical work that have followed these detections, with an emphasis on gamma-ray binaries. I present the current evidence that gamma-ray binaries are driven by rotation-powered pulsars. Binaries are laboratories giving access to different vantage points or physical conditions on a regular timescale as the components revolve on their orbit. I explain the basic ingredients that models of gamma-ray binaries use, the challenges that they currently face, and how they can bring insights into the physics of pulsars. I discuss how gamma-ray emission from microquasars provides a window into the connection between accretion–ejection and acceleration, while eta Car and novae raise new questions on the physics of these objects – or on the theory of diffusive shock acceleration. Indeed, explaining the gamma-ray emission from binaries strains our theories of high-energy astrophysical processes, by testing them on scales and in environments that were generally not foreseen, and this is how these detections are most valuable.

### Gamma-ray binaries and related systems [Replacement]

After initial claims and a long hiatus, it is now established that several binary stars emit high (0.1-100 GeV) and very high energy (>100 GeV) gamma rays. A new class has emerged called ‘gamma-ray binaries’, since most of their radiated power is emitted beyond 1 MeV. Accreting X-ray binaries, novae and a colliding wind binary (eta Car) have also been detected – ‘related systems’ that confirm the ubiquity of particle acceleration in astrophysical sources. Do these systems have anything in common ? What drives their high-energy emission ? How do the processes involved compare to those in other sources of gamma rays: pulsars, active galactic nuclei, supernova remnants ? I review the wealth of observational and theoretical work that have followed these detections, with an emphasis on gamma-ray binaries. I present the current evidence that gamma-ray binaries are driven by rotation-powered pulsars. Binaries are laboratories giving access to different vantage points or physical conditions on a regular timescale as the components revolve on their orbit. I explain the basic ingredients that models of gamma-ray binaries use, the challenges that they currently face, and how they can bring insights into the physics of pulsars. I discuss how gamma-ray emission from microquasars provides a window into the connection between accretion–ejection and acceleration, while eta Car and novae raise new questions on the physics of these objects – or on the theory of diffusive shock acceleration. Indeed, explaining the gamma-ray emission from binaries strains our theories of high-energy astrophysical processes, by testing them on scales and in environments that were generally not foreseen, and this is how these detections are most valuable.

### A critical shock Mach number for particle acceleration in the absence of pre-existing cosmic rays: $M=\sqrt 5$ [Replacement]

It is shown that, under some generic assumptions, shocks cannot accelerate particles unless the overall shock Mach number exceeds a critical value M > sqrt(5). The reason is that for M <= sqrt(5) the work done to compress the flow in a particle precursor requires more enthalpy flux than the system can sustain. This lower limit applies to situations without significant magnetic field pressure. In case that the magnetic field pressure dominates the pressure in the unshocked medium, i.e. for low plasma beta, the resistivity of the magnetic field makes it even more difficult to fulfil the energetic requirements for the formation of shock with an accelerated particle precursor and associated compression of the upstream plasma. We illustrate the effects of magnetic fields for the extreme situation of a purely perpendicular magnetic field configuration with plasma beta = 0, which gives a minimum Mach number of M = 5/2. The situation becomes more complex, if we incorporate the effects of pre-existing cosmic rays, indicating that the additional degree of freedom allows for less strict Mach number limits on acceleration. We discuss the implications of this result for low Mach number shock acceleration as found in solar system shocks, and shocks in clusters of galaxies.

### A critical shock Mach number for particle acceleration in the absence of pre-existing cosmic rays: $M=\sqrt 5$ [Replacement]

It is shown that, under some generic assumptions, shocks cannot accelerate particles unless the overall shock Mach number exceeds a critical value M > sqrt(5). The reason is that for M <= sqrt(5) the work done to compress the flow in a particle precursor requires more enthalpy flux than the system can sustain. This lower limit applies to situations without significant magnetic field pressure. In case that the magnetic field pressure dominates the pressure in the unshocked medium, i.e. for low plasma beta, the resistivity of the magnetic field makes it even more difficult to fulfil the energetic requirements for the formation of shock with an accelerated particle precursor and associated compression of the upstream plasma. We illustrate the effects of magnetic fields for the extreme situation of a purely perpendicular magnetic field configuration with plasma beta = 0, which gives a minimum Mach number of M = 5/2. The situation becomes more complex, if we incorporate the effects of pre-existing cosmic rays, indicating that the additional degree of freedom allows for less strict Mach number limits on acceleration. We discuss the implications of this result for low Mach number shock acceleration as found in solar system shocks, and shocks in clusters of galaxies.

### A critical shock Mach number for particle acceleration: M=sqrt(5)

It is shown that, under some generic assumptions, shocks cannot accelerate particles unless the overall shock Mach number exceeds a critical value M > sqrt(5). The reason is that for M <= sqrt(5) the work done to compress the flow in a particle precursor requires more enthalpy flux than the system can sustain. This lower limit applies to situations without significant magnetic field pressure. In case that the magnetic field pressure dominates the pressure in the unshocked medium, i.e. for low plasma beta, the resistivity of the magnetic field makes it even more difficult to fulfil the energetic requirements for the formation of shock with an accelerated particle precursor and associated compression of the upstream plasma. We illustrate the effects of magnetic fields for the extreme situation of a purely perpendicular magnetic field configuration with plasma beta = 0, which gives a minimum Mach number of M = 5/2. The situation becomes more complex, if we incorporate the effects of pre-existing cosmic rays, indicating that the additional degree of freedom allows for less strict Mach number limits on acceleration. We discuss the implications of this result for low Mach number shock acceleration as found in solar system shocks, and shocks in clusters of galaxies.

### Gamma-ray observations of the microquasars Cygnus X-1, Cygnus X-3, GRS 1915+105, and GX 339-4 with the Fermi Large Area Telescope

Detecting gamma-rays from microquasars is a challenging but worthwhile endeavor for understanding particle acceleration, the jet mechanism, and for constraining leptonic/hadronic emission models. We present results from a likelihood analysis on timescales of 1 d and 10 d of ~4 years worth of gamma-ray observations (0.1-10 GeV) by Fermi-LAT of Cyg X-1, Cyg X-3, GRS 1915+105, and GX 339-4. Our analysis reproduced all but one of the previous gamma-ray outbursts of Cyg X-3 as reported with Fermi or AGILE, plus 5 new days on which Cyg X-3 is detected at a significance of ~5-sigma that are not reported in the literature. In addition, Cyg X-3 is significantly detected on 10-d timescales outside of known gamma-ray flaring epochs which suggests that persistent gamma-ray emission from Cyg X-3 has been detected for the first time. For Cyg X-1, we find three low significance excesses (~3-4-sigma) on daily timescales that are contemporaneous with gamma-ray flares reported (also at low significance) by AGILE. Two other microquasars, GRS 1915+105 and GX 339-4, are not detected and we derive 3-sigma upper limits of 2.3e-8 ph/cm2/s and 1.6e-8 ph/cm2/s, respectively, on the persistent flux in the 0.1-10 GeV range. These results enable us to define a list of the general conditions that are necessary for the detection of gamma-rays from microquasars.

### Gamma-ray observations of the microquasars Cygnus X-1, Cygnus X-3, GRS 1915+105, and GX 339-4 with the Fermi Large Area Telescope [Replacement]

Detecting gamma-rays from microquasars is a challenging but worthwhile endeavor for understanding particle acceleration, the jet mechanism, and for constraining leptonic/hadronic emission models. We present results from a likelihood analysis on timescales of 1 d and 10 d of ~4 years worth of gamma-ray observations (0.1-10 GeV) by Fermi-LAT of Cyg X-1, Cyg X-3, GRS 1915+105, and GX 339-4. Our analysis reproduced all but one of the previous gamma-ray outbursts of Cyg X-3 as reported with Fermi or AGILE, plus 5 new days on which Cyg X-3 is detected at a significance of ~5-sigma that are not reported in the literature. In addition, Cyg X-3 is significantly detected on 10-d timescales outside of known gamma-ray flaring epochs which suggests that persistent gamma-ray emission from Cyg X-3 has been detected for the first time. For Cyg X-1, we find three low significance excesses (~3-4-sigma) on daily timescales that are contemporaneous with gamma-ray flares reported (also at low significance) by AGILE. Two other microquasars, GRS 1915+105 and GX 339-4, are not detected and we derive 3-sigma upper limits of 2.3e-8 ph/cm2/s and 1.6e-8 ph/cm2/s, respectively, on the persistent flux in the 0.1-10 GeV range. These results enable us to define a list of the general conditions that are necessary for the detection of gamma-rays from microquasars.

### Gamma-ray observations of the microquasars Cygnus X-1, Cygnus X-3, GRS 1915+105, and GX 339-4 with the Fermi Large Area Telescope [Replacement]

Detecting gamma-rays from microquasars is a challenging but worthwhile endeavor for understanding particle acceleration, the jet mechanism, and for constraining leptonic/hadronic emission models. We present results from a likelihood analysis on timescales of 1 d and 10 d of ~4 years worth of gamma-ray observations (0.1-10 GeV) by Fermi-LAT of Cyg X-1, Cyg X-3, GRS 1915+105, and GX 339-4. Our analysis reproduced all but one of the previous gamma-ray outbursts of Cyg X-3 as reported with Fermi or AGILE, plus 5 new days on which Cyg X-3 is detected at a significance of ~5-sigma that are not reported in the literature. In addition, Cyg X-3 is significantly detected on 10-d timescales outside of known gamma-ray flaring epochs which suggests that persistent gamma-ray emission from Cyg X-3 has been detected for the first time. For Cyg X-1, we find three low significance excesses (~3-4-sigma) on daily timescales that are contemporaneous with gamma-ray flares reported (also at low significance) by AGILE. Two other microquasars, GRS 1915+105 and GX 339-4, are not detected and we derive 3-sigma upper limits of 2.3e-8 ph/cm2/s and 1.6e-8 ph/cm2/s, respectively, on the persistent flux in the 0.1-10 GeV range. These results enable us to define a list of the general conditions that are necessary for the detection of gamma-rays from microquasars.

### Exploring high-energy processes in binary systems with the Cherenkov Telescope Array

Several types of binary systems have been detected up to now at high and very high gamma-ray energies, including microquasars, young pulsars around massive stars and colliding wind binaries. The study of the sources already known, and of the new types of sources expected to be discovered with the unprecedented sensitivity of CTA, will allow us to qualitatively improve our knowledge on particle acceleration, emission and radiation reprocessing, and on the dynamics of flows and their magnetic fields. Here we present some examples of the capabilities of CTA to probe the flux and spectral changes that typically occur in these astrophysical sources, as well as to search for delays in correlated X-ray/TeV variability with CTA and satellites of the CTA era. Our results show that our knowledge of the high-energy physics in binary systems will significantly deepen with CTA.

### Hard X-ray and ultraviolet emission during the 2011 June 7 solar flare

The relationship between X-ray and UV emission during flares, particularly in the context of quasi-periodic pulsations, remains unclear. To address this, we study the X-ray and UV emission during the eruptive flare of 2011 June 7 utilising X-ray imaging from RHESSI and UV 1700A imaging from SDO/AIA. This event is associated with synchronous quasi-periodic pulsations in both the X-ray and UV emission, as well as substantial motion of the hard X-ray footpoints. The motion of the footpoint associated with the left-hand flare ribbon is shown to reverse direction along the flare ribbons on at least two occasions. Over the same time interval, the footpoints also gradually move apart at v ~ 12 km/s. This is consistent with the measured plane-of-sky thermal X-ray source outward velocity of ~ 14 km/s, and matches the gradual outward expansion of the UV ribbons. However, there is no associated short-timescale motion of the UV bright regions. We find that the locations of the brightest X-ray and UV regions are different, particularly during the early portion of the flare impulsive phase. Correlation analysis of the measured flare arcade parameters reveals that the 25 – 50 keV hard X-ray flux is only weakly correlated with the other arcade properties, despite begin strongly correlated with the integrated UV emission. We characterise this event in terms of long-term behaviour, where the X-ray nonthermal, thermal, and UV emission sources appear consistent, and short-term behaviour, where the emission sources are inconsistent. We suggest that the short timescale behaviour of hard X-ray footpoints, and the nature of the observed quasi-periodic pulsations, is determined by fundamental, as-yet unobserved properties of the reconnection region and particle acceleration sites. This presents a challenge for current three-dimensional flare reconnection models.

### Hard X-ray and ultraviolet emission during the 2011 June 7 solar flare [Replacement]

The relationship between X-ray and UV emission during flares, particularly in the context of quasi-periodic pulsations, remains unclear. To address this, we study the impulsive X-ray and UV emission during the eruptive flare of 2011 June 7 utilising X-ray imaging from RHESSI and UV 1700A imaging from SDO/AIA. This event is associated with quasi-periodic pulsations in X-ray and possibly UV emission, as well as substantial parallel and perpendicular motion of the hard X-ray footpoints. The motion of the footpoints parallel to the flare ribbons is unusual; it is shown to reverse direction on at least two occasions. However, there is no associated short-timescale motion of the UV bright regions. Additionally, we find that the locations of the brightest X-ray and UV regions are different, particularly during the early portion of the flare impulsive phase, despite their integrated emission being strongly correlated in time. Correlation analysis of measured flare properties, such as the footpoint separation, flare shear, photospheric magnetic field and coronal reconnection rate, reveals that – in the impulsive phase – the 25 – 50 keV hard X-ray flux is only weakly correlated with these properties, in contrast to previous studies. We characterise this event in terms of long-term behaviour, where the X-ray nonthermal, thermal, and UV emission sources appear temporally and spatially consistent, and short-term behaviour, where the emission sources are inconsistent and quasi-periodic pulsations are a dominant feature requiring explanation. We suggest that the short timescale behaviour of hard X-ray footpoints, and the nature of the observed quasi-periodic pulsations, is determined by fundamental, as-yet unobserved properties of the reconnection region and particle acceleration sites. This presents a challenge for current three-dimensional flare reconnection models.

### Runaway stars: their impact on the intestellar medium

Runaway, massive stars are not among the most numerous. However, the bow shocks built by their supersonic movement in the interstellar medium have been detected in the infrared range in many cases. Most recently, the stellar bow shocks have been proposed as particle acceleration sites, as radio data analysis at high angular resolution have shown. We present results of different manifestations of the stellar bowshock phenomenon, revealed from modern IR databases.

### Particle Acceleration And Emission Processes In Mrk 421

We investigate the X-ray and $\gamma$-ray flares of Mrk 421 on 2008 June 6-15 using the synchrotron self- Compton(SSC) model with electron acceleration, in which an evident correlation between the X-ray and $\gamma$-ray bands appears, while no significant correlation between the optical and X-ray band is observed. We argue that the emission from Mrk 421 may originate from two different components. One is the steady component from the outer region that is mainly attributed to the optical band, in which the electrons are accelerated by first-order Fermi acceleration mechanism. We use a steady electron spectrum to produce the synchrotron self-Compton emission. The other is the variable component from the inner region, in which the electrons are accelerated by the stochastic acceleration process. We use the time-dependent SSC model to produce the emission from the variable component. We suggest that the flares are due to the hardening of the electron spectrum under the process of the stochastic acceleration, which leads to the hardening of the observed spectrum at the X-ray and $\gamma$-ray bands. Furthermore, we find that the energy densities of electrons and magnetic fields are near equipartition in both jet regions.

### Particle Acceleration And Emission Processes In Mrk 421 [Replacement]

We investigate the X-ray and $\gamma$-ray flares of Mrk 421 on 2008 June 6-15 using the synchrotron self- Compton(SSC) model with electron acceleration, in which an evident correlation between the X-ray and $\gamma$-ray bands appears, while no significant correlation between the optical and X-ray band is observed. We argue that the emission from Mrk 421 may originate from two different components. One is the steady component from the outer region that is mainly attributed to the optical band, in which the electrons are accelerated by first-order Fermi acceleration mechanism. We use a steady electron spectrum to produce the synchrotron self-Compton emission. The other is the variable component from the inner region, in which the electrons are accelerated by the stochastic acceleration process. We use the time-dependent SSC model to produce the emission from the variable component. We suggest that the flares are due to the hardening of the electron spectrum under the process of the stochastic acceleration, which leads to the hardening of the observed spectrum in the X-ray and $\gamma$-ray bands. Furthermore, we find that the energy densities of electrons and magnetic fields are near equipartition in both jet regions.

### Determination of Stochastic Acceleration Model Characteristics in Solar Flares [Replacement]

Following our recent paper (Petrosian & Chen 2010), we have developed an inversion method to determine the basic characteristics of the particle acceleration mechanism directly and non-parametrically from observations under the leaky box framework. In the above paper, we demonstrated this method for obtaining the energy dependence of the escape time. Here, by converting the Fokker-Planck equation to its integral form, we derive the energy dependences of the energy diffusion coefficient and direct acceleration rate for stochastic acceleration in terms of the accelerated and escaping particle spectra. Combining the regularized inversion method of Piana et al. 2007 and our procedure, we relate the acceleration characteristics in solar flares directly to the count visibility data from RHESSI. We determine the timescales for electron escape, pitch angle scattering, energy diffusion, and direct acceleration at the loop top acceleration region for two intense solar flares based on the regularized electron flux spectral images. The X3.9 class event shows dramatically different energy dependences for the acceleration and scattering timescales, while the M2.1 class event shows a milder difference. The M2.1 class event could be consistent with the stochastic acceleration model with a very steep turbulence spectrum. A likely explanation of the X3.9 class event could be that the escape of electrons from the acceleration region is not governed by a random walk process, but instead is affected by magnetic mirroring, in which the scattering time is proportional to the escape time and has an energy dependence similar to the energy diffusion time.

### The Efficiency of Second-Order Fermi Acceleration by Weakly Compressible MHD Turbulence [Replacement]

We investigate the effects of pitch-angle scattering on the efficiency of particle heating and acceleration by MHD turbulence using phenomenological estimates and simulations of non-relativistic test particles interacting with strong, subsonic MHD turbulence. We include an imposed pitch-angle scattering rate, which is meant to approximate the effects of high frequency plasma waves and/or velocity space instabilities. We focus on plasma parameters similar to those found in the near-Earth solar wind, though most of our results are more broadly applicable. An important control parameter is the size of the particle mean free path lambda_{mfp} relative to the scale of the turbulent fluctuations L. For small scattering rates, particles interact quasi-resonantly with turbulent fluctuations in magnetic field strength. Scattering increases the long-term efficiency of this resonant heating by factors of a few-10, but the distribution function does not develop a significant non-thermal power-law tail. For higher scattering rates, the interaction between particles and turbulent fluctuations becomes non-resonant, governed by particles heating and cooling adiabatically as they encounter turbulent density fluctuations. Rapid pitch-angle scattering can produce a power-law tail in the proton distribution function but this requires fine-tuning of parameters. Moreover, in the near-Earth solar wind, a significant power-law tail cannot develop by this mechanism because the particle acceleration timescales are longer than the adiabatic cooling timescale set by the expansion of the solar wind. Our results thus imply that MHD-scale turbulent fluctuations are unlikely to be the origin of the v^{-5} tail in the proton distribution function observed in the solar wind.

### The Efficiency of Second-Order Fermi Acceleration by Weakly Compressible MHD Turbulence

We investigate the effects of pitch-angle scattering on the efficiency of particle heating and acceleration by MHD turbulence using phenomenological estimates and simulations of non-relativistic test particles interacting with strong, subsonic MHD turbulence. We include an imposed pitch-angle scattering rate, which is meant to approximate the effects of high frequency plasma waves and/or velocity space instabilities. We focus on plasma parameters similar to those found in the near-Earth solar wind, though most of our results are more broadly applicable. An important control parameter is the size of the particle mean free path lambda_{mfp} relative to the scale of the turbulent fluctuations L. For small scattering rates, particles interact quasi-resonantly with turbulent fluctuations in magnetic field strength. Scattering increases the long-term efficiency of this resonant heating by factors of a few-10, but the distribution function does not develop a significant non-thermal power-law tail. For higher scattering rates, the interaction between particles and turbulent fluctuations becomes non-resonant, governed by particles heating and cooling adiabatically as they encounter turbulent density fluctuations. Rapid pitch-angle scattering can produce a power-law tail in the proton distribution function but this requires fine-tuning of parameters. Moreover, in the near-Earth solar wind, a significant power-law tail cannot develop by this mechanism because the particle acceleration timescales are longer than the adiabatic cooling timescale set by the expansion of the solar wind. Our results thus imply that MHD-scale turbulent fluctuations are unlikely to be the origin of the v^{-5} tail in the proton distribution function observed in the solar wind.

### Cosmic Ray acceleration and Balmer emission from SNR 0509-67.5 [Replacement]

Context: Observation of Balmer lines from the region around the forward shock of supernova remnants may provide precious information on the shock dynamics and on the efficiency of particle acceleration at the shock. Aims: We calculate the Balmer line emission and the shape of the broad Balmer line for parameter values suitable for SNR 0509-67.5, as a function of the cosmic ray acceleration efficiency and of the level of thermal equilibration between electrons and protons behind the shock. This calculation aims at using the width of the broad Balmer line emission to infer the cosmic ray acceleration efficiency in this remnant. Methods: We use the recently developed non-linear theory of diffusive shock acceleration in the presence of neutrals. The semi-analytical approach that we developed includes a description of magnetic field amplification as due to resonant streaming instability, the dynamical reaction of both accelerated particles and turbulent magnetic field on the shock, and all channels of interaction between neutral atoms and background plasma that change the shock dynamics. Results: We achieve a quantitative assessment of the CR acceleration efficiency in SNR 0509-67.5 as a function of the shock velocity and different levels of electron-proton thermalization in the shock region. If the shock moves faster than ~4500 km/s, one can conclude that particle acceleration must be taking place with efficiency of several tens of percent. For lower shock velocity the evidence for particle acceleration becomes less clear because of the uncertainty in the electron-ion equilibration downstream. We also discuss the role of future measurements of the narrow Balmer line.

### Cosmic Ray acceleration and Balmer emission from SNR 0509-67.5

Context: Observation of Balmer lines from the region around the forward shock of supernova remnants may provide precious information on the shock dynamics and on the efficiency of particle acceleration at the shock. Aims: We calculate the Balmer line emission and the shape of the broad Balmer line for parameter values suitable for SNR 0509-67.5, as a function of the cosmic ray acceleration efficiency and of the level of thermal equilibration between electrons and protons behind the shock. This calculation aims at using the width of the broad Balmer line emission to infer the cosmic ray acceleration efficiency in this remnant. Methods: We use the recently developed non-linear theory of diffusive shock acceleration in the presence of neutrals. The semi-analytical approach that we developed includes a description of magnetic field amplification as due to resonant streaming instability, the dynamical reaction of both accelerated particles and turbulent magnetic field on the shock, and all channels of interaction between neutral atoms and background plasma that change the shock dynamics. Results: We achieve a quantitative assessment of the CR acceleration efficiency in SNR 0509-67.5 as a function of the shock velocity and different levels of electron-proton thermalization in the shock region. If the shock moves faster than ~4500 km/s, one can conclude that particle acceleration must be taking place with efficiency of several tens of percent. For lower shock velocity the evidence for particle acceleration becomes less clear because of the uncertainty in the electron-ion equilibration downstream. We also discuss the role of future measurements of the narrow Balmer line.

### Particle Acceleration during Magnetorotational Instability in a Collisionless Accretion Disk

Particle acceleration during the magnetorotational instability (MRI) in a collisionless accretion disk was investigated by using a particle-in-cell (PIC) simulation. We discuss the important role that magnetic reconnection plays not only on the saturation of MRI but also on the relativistic particle generation. The plasma pressure anisotropy of $p_{\perp} > p_{\para}$ induced by the action of MRI dynamo leads to rapid growth in magnetic reconnection, resulting in the fast generation of nonthermal particles with a hard power-law spectrum. This efficient particle acceleration mechanism involved in a collisionless accretion disk may be a possible model to explain the origin of high energy particles observed around massive black holes.

### Broad Balmer line emission and cosmic ray acceleration efficiency in supernova remnant shocks [Replacement]

Balmer emission may be a powerful diagnostic tool to test the paradigm of cosmic ray (CR) acceleration in young supernova remnant (SNR) shocks. The width of the broad Balmer line is a direct indicator of the downstream plasma temperature. In case of efficient particle acceleration an appreciable fraction of the total kinetic energy of the plasma is channeled into CRs, therefore the downstream temperature decreases and so does the broad Balmer line width. This width also depends on the level of thermal equilibration between ions and neutral hydrogen atoms in the downstream. Since in general in young SNR shocks only a few charge exchange (CE) reactions occur before ionization, equilibration between ions and neutrals is not reached, and a kinetic description of the neutrals is required in order to properly compute Balmer emission. We provide a method for the calculation of Balmer emission using a self-consistent description of the shock structure in the presence of neutrals and CRs. We use a recently developed semi-analytical approach, where neutral particles, ionized plasma, accelerated particles and magnetic fields are all coupled together through the mass, momentum and energy flux conservation equations. The distribution of neutrals is obtained from the full Boltzmann equation in velocity space, coupled to Maxwellian ions through ionization and CE processes. The computation is also improved with respect to previous work thanks to a better approximation for the atomic interaction rates. We find that for shock speeds >2500km/s the distribution of broad neutrals never approaches a Maxwellian and its moments differ from those of the ionized component. These differences reflect into a smaller FWHM than predicted in previous calculations, where thermalization was assumed. The method presented here provides a realistic estimate of particle acceleration efficiency in Balmer dominated shocks.