The Physics of Gamma-Ray Bursts

A complete text on the physics of gamma-ray bursts, the most brilliant explosions since the Big Bang.

Bing Zhang (Author)

9781107027619, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 13 December 2018

612 pages
25.3 x 19.3 x 3.2 cm, 1.48 kg

'I read Zhang's book with great interest, as I wanted an up-to-date review of the theories and the evidence for them. That is certainly what the book provides. It begins with clear reviews of GRB history and phenomenology. Then it reviews in considerable detail some generic (but highly non-trivial) high-energy astrophysics (relativity, relativistic shocks, leptonic and hadronic processes) … In conclusion, I found it an educational read …' Robert S. MacKay, Contemporary Physics

Gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) are the most luminous explosions in the universe, which within seconds release energy comparable to what the Sun releases in its entire lifetime. The field of GRBs has developed rapidly and matured over the past decades. Written by a leading researcher, this text presents a thorough treatment of every aspect of the physics of GRBs. It starts with an overview of the field and an introduction to GRB phenomenology. After laying out the basics of relativity, relativistic shocks, and leptonic and hadronic radiation processes, the volume covers all topics related to GRBs, including a general theoretical framework, afterglow and prompt emission models, progenitor, central engine, multi-messenger aspects (cosmic rays, neutrinos, and gravitational waves), cosmological connections, and broader impacts on fundamental physics and astrobiology. It is suitable for advanced undergraduates, graduate students, and experienced researchers in the field of GRBs and high-energy astrophysics in general.

Foreword
Preface
1. Introduction
2. GRB Phenomenology
3. Relativity
4. Relativistic shocks
5. Leptonic processes
6. Hadronic processes
7. Basic theoretical framework
8. Afterglow physics
9. Prompt emission physics
10. Progenitor
11. Central engine
12. Non-electromagnetic signals
13. Cosmological context
14. Other topics
References
Index.

Subject Areas: Astrophysics [PHVB], Relativity physics [PHR], Nuclear physics [PHN], Physics [PH], Cosmology & the universe [PGK], Astronomy, space & time [PG]