On high frequency Cherenkov-type radiation in pulsar magnetospheric electron-positron plasma

TL;DR

This paper investigates a novel high-frequency radiation mechanism in pulsar magnetospheres, combining Cherenkov and curvature emission features, which could explain pulsar X-ray and gamma-ray emissions.

Contribution

It introduces a new emission process involving medium-induced Cherenkov-like radiation in curved magnetic fields, relevant for pulsar high-energy emissions.

Findings

Generated waves are vacuum-like electromagnetic waves.

The mechanism can produce high-frequency radiation capable of escaping the medium.

Potentially explains pulsar X-ray and gamma-ray emission origins.

Abstract

Emission process of a charged particle propagating in a medium with a curved magnetic field is considered. This mechanism combines features of conventional Cherenkov and curvature emission. Thus, presence of a medium with the index of refraction larger than the unity is essential for the emission. In the present paper the generation of high frequency radiation by the mentioned mechanism is considered. The generated waves are vacuum-like electromagnetic waves and may leave the medium directly. Consequently, this emission mechanism may be important for the problem of pulsar X-ray and gamma-ray emission generation.