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D. A. Uzdensky (Princeton University), A. I. MacFadyen (Institute for Advanced Study)
We propose a magnetic mechanism for the propagation of a strongly collimated outflow through a collapsing massive star as an explanation for long-duration gamma-ray bursts within the collapsar model. The mechanism is based on Lynden-Bell's magnetic tower model, modified to include the strong hydrodynamic shock that is driven into the star by the growing magnetic tower, as well as the hot gas cocoon between the tower and the shock. The cocoon provides the pressure that collimates the magnetic tower into a narrow jet. The channel cleared by the expanding tower is plausibly free of baryons and thus allows the clean escape of magnetic energy from the central engine through the star.
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Bulletin of the American Astronomical Society, 37 #4
© 2005. The American Astronomical Soceity.