Testing hadronic and photohadronic interactions as responsible for ultrahigh energy cosmic rays and neutrino fluxes from starburst galaxies
Antonio Condorelli, Denise Boncioli, Enrico Peretti, S. Petrera
Abstract
The sources and acceleration mechanisms for observed ultra-high energy cosmic rays (UHECRs) are abiding problems still needing definitive resolution. The authors of the present study investigate the potential of starburst galaxies (SBGs) - so named for being particularly active environments for formation of new stars - to be the sources of UHECRs. Using Monte Carlo simulations of the extremely dense and turbulent environment in the most active region of SBGs, the authors show by a highly suggestive comparison to data obtained by the Pierre Auger Observatory that SBGs can be sources of UHECRs.
Topics & Concepts
PhysicsCosmic rayPierre Auger ObservatoryNeutrinoUltra-high-energy cosmic rayAstrophysicsGalaxyActive galactic nucleusAstronomyAugerCOSMIC cancer databaseNuclear physicsAtomic physicsAstrophysics and Cosmic PhenomenaGamma-ray bursts and supernovaeDark Matter and Cosmic Phenomena