Magnetic domain instability and the equation of state for magnetars: A new mechanism for SGRs

G. J. Mathews, I. Suh

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

We explore the possibility that soft gamma-ray repeaters (SGRs) and anomalous X-ray pulsars (AXPs) might be the result of a magnetic phase separation in magnetars. Magnetars are thought to be the site for the origin of observed SGRs and AXPs. We study the separation of magnetar-matter into phases of different flux density. We identify the parameter space in matter density and magnetic field strength at which there is an instability for magnetic domain formation. We show that such instabilities are likely to occur in the deep outer crust for the magnetic Baym, Pethick, and Sutherland (BPS) model and in the inner crust and core for magnetars described by the relativistic Hartree theory. We estimate that the energy released by the onset of this instability is consistent with the energy emitted by SGRs.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication10th International Symposium on Origin of Matter and Evolution of Galaxies, OMEG10
Pages174-180
Number of pages7
DOIs
StatePublished - 2010
Externally publishedYes
Event10th International Symposium on Origin of Matter and Evolution of Galaxies, OMEG10 - Osaka, Japan
Duration: Mar 8 2010Mar 10 2010

Publication series

NameAIP Conference Proceedings
Volume1269
ISSN (Print)0094-243X
ISSN (Electronic)1551-7616

Conference

Conference10th International Symposium on Origin of Matter and Evolution of Galaxies, OMEG10
Country/TerritoryJapan
CityOsaka
Period03/8/1003/10/10

Keywords

  • Gamma rays
  • Interiors - Stars
  • Magnetic field - Stars
  • Neutron - X-rays
  • Stars
  • Stars - Instabilities - Stars

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Magnetic domain instability and the equation of state for magnetars: A new mechanism for SGRs'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this