Mechanical Model for Relativistic Blast Waves

Jul, 2006
9 pages
Published in:
  • Astrophys.J.Lett. 651 (2006) L1-L4
e-Print:

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Abstract: (arXiv)
Relativistic blast waves can be described by a mechanical model. In this model, the blast -- the compressed gas between the forward and reverse shocks -- is viewed as one hot body. Equations governing its dynamics are derived from conservation of mass, energy, and momentum. Simple analytical solutions are obtained in the two limiting cases of ultra-relativistic and non-relativistic reverse shock. Equations are derived for the general explosion problem.
  • gamma rays: bursts
  • hydrodynamics
  • relativity
  • shock waves