Shock-Cloud Interaction in RX J1713.7a?'3946: Evidence for Cosmic-Ray Acceleration in the Young VHE I?-ray Supernova Remnant

This book presents a study of the young supernova remnant RX J1713.7-3946 in order to reveal the origin of cosmic rays in our galaxy. The study is focusing on the X-ray and gamma-radiation from the cosmic-ray electrons and/or protons in the supernova remnant as well as the emission from the surrounding interstellar gas measured by the NANTEN2 4-m radio telescope at Nagoya University. The gamma rays show a good spatial correspondence with the interstellar gas, which for the first time provides strong evidence of the acceleration of cosmic-ray protons. Additionally, the author determines that an interaction between the supernova shockwaves and interstellar gas, referred to as “shock-cloud interaction,” promotes the efficient acceleration of cosmic-ray electrons in the supernova remnant. The book reveals that the interstellar gas plays an essential role in producing the high-energy radiation and cosmic rays, offering vital new insights into the origin and behavior of galactic cosmic rays.