A plasmon model for the knots of M 87

Abstract

A plasmon model for the optical-radio knots of M87 is discussed with reference to their observed characteristics and physical conditions. The spectral evolution is investigated under the joint dissipation through expansion, Fermi acceleration and synchrotron radiation. A Fermi acceleration coefficient of ∼ 10-9 s-1 was obtained, and it was also shown that a spectral break should occur at ∼ 5 × 1014Hz and that this frequency should vary very slowly in time, in agreement with observations. © 1983.