Magnetars

Magnetars are a type of neutron star characterised by exceptionally strong magnetic fields, estimated to be a thousand times stronger than typical neutron stars

Magnetars

Magnetars Latest News

Researchers have found observational evidence that magnetar flares can produce heavy elements like gold through a process known as r-process nucleosynthesis. Until now, gold was believed to form predominantly in neutron star mergers.

What Are Magnetars?

  • Magnetars are a type of neutron star characterised by exceptionally strong magnetic fields, estimated to be a thousand times stronger than typical neutron stars. Occasionally, they emit intense bursts of energy in the form of flares.
  • The discovery was based on data from a giant flare emitted by a magnetar in 2004, during which unusual gamma-ray emissions were recorded almost a day after the initial flare by NASA’s Compton Gamma Ray Observatory.
  • The delayed emission was not consistent with standard flare afterglows. Instead, it displayed signatures of radioactive decay from neutron-rich isotopes, suggesting the presence of r-process nucleosynthesis.

What Is R-Process Nucleosynthesis?

  • The r-process or rapid neutron-capture process is a series of nuclear reactions where atomic nuclei rapidly capture neutrons, forming heavy elements like gold, platinum, and uranium. It requires extreme energy environments and neutron-rich matter.
  • Researchers estimated that approximately 1.9 septillion kg of r-process material was ejected at nearly light speed during the flare. This material likely underwent rapid neutron capture, resulting in the synthesis of heavy elements.
  • This discovery suggests that magnetars could have contributed to the universe’s heavy element inventory much earlier than neutron star collisions, offering insights into the chemical evolution of galaxies.

Magnetars FAQs

Q1. What is a magnetar?
Ans: A magnetar is a type of neutron star with an extremely powerful magnetic field, up to 1,000 times stronger than typical neutron stars.

Q2. What are magnetar flares?
Ans: Magnetar flares are intense bursts of X-rays and gamma rays caused by magnetic field instability or starquakes on a magnetar’s surface.

Source: TH

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