Open AccessThe edge of a gamma‐ray burst afterglow
Author(s) -
Mészáros P.,
Rees M. J.
Publication year - 1998
Publication title -
monthly notices of the royal astronomical society
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.058
H-Index - 383
eISSN - 1365-2966
pISSN - 0035-8711
DOI - 10.1046/j.1365-8711.1998.01992.x
Subject(s) - physics , afterglow , hypernova , gamma ray burst , ejecta , astrophysics , absorption (acoustics) , spectral line , absorption edge , gamma ray , astronomy , supernova , atomic physics , optics , band gap , quantum mechanics
We discuss the formation of spectral features in the decelerating ejecta of gamma‐ray bursts, including the possible effect of inhomogeneities. These should lead to blueshifted and broadened absorption edges and resonant features, especially from H and He. An external neutral ISM could produce detectable H and He, as well as Fe X‐ray absorption edges and lines. Hypernova scenarios may be diagnosed by Fe Kα and H Lyα emission lines.