Are AGNs or GRBs a greater danger for life on Earth?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the potential danger posed to Earth by Eta Carina exploding as a gamma-ray burst or the black hole at the Galactic centre accreting material. The danger would be based on the radiation levels reaching Earth, which can be calculated using the inverse-square law. However, there is some debate about whether the law can be applied to gamma-ray bursts due to their beamed nature. It is also noted that Eta Carinae and the supermassive black hole are unlikely to pose a significant threat to Earth in the near future.
  • #1
Maitreya
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I've got a small homework question that goes:

Which would be more dangerous and why: Eta Carina exploding as a gamma-ray burst, or
the black hole at the Galactic centre accreting material at the same rate as a typical luminous
Seyfert galaxy?

I have simply estimated the flux from both of them given the average energy output of GRBs and AGNs, and their distance from the Su with inverse square law. Does it make sense that the GRB, closer and slightly more energetic is way more dangerous for life on Earth?
 
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  • #2
The danger posed to Earth would be based on the radiation levels reaching earth.

Calculating the flux as a function of source strength and distance is the way to go.

Edit: Please refer to cross reference: WR104 Gamma Ray Burst
 
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  • #3
I don't think you can use the inverse-square law for a gamma-ray burst. Think about it for a moment and see if you agree.
 
  • #4
Are you hinting something regarding the presence of relativistic jets? Doesn't the inverse square law work anyways, both for a spherical radiation and for a beamed one?
 
  • #5
Not entirely, a beamed jet could be a danger. They appear to be collimated not unlike a laser beam due to intense magnetic fields of the star. It does not, however, appear Eta Carinae is much of a threat. Its rotational axis is not aligned with Earth and is unlikely to become a gamma burster, more likely a garden variety stellar collapse supernova. The SMBH is an even more remote threat. It has no significant 'food' source at present and that is unlikely to change for millions, if not billions of years.
 

1. What is an AGN and how does it affect Earth?

An AGN, or active galactic nucleus, is a compact region at the center of a galaxy that emits large amounts of electromagnetic radiation. This radiation can be harmful to Earth if it is in the form of high-energy particles, such as gamma rays, which can cause damage to living organisms and disrupt electronic systems.

2. What is a GRB and can it pose a danger to Earth?

A GRB, or gamma-ray burst, is a powerful burst of high-energy radiation that can last from a few milliseconds to several minutes. They are thought to be caused by the collapse of a massive star or the collision of two neutron stars. While a GRB occurring in our own galaxy would pose a significant danger to Earth, the likelihood of this happening is very low. However, long-duration GRBs occurring in other galaxies could potentially cause damage to Earth's atmosphere and disrupt life on our planet.

3. How are AGNs and GRBs studied by scientists?

Scientists study AGNs and GRBs using a variety of techniques, including telescopes that detect electromagnetic radiation and instruments that can measure high-energy particles. Additionally, scientists use computer simulations and mathematical models to better understand the physics behind these phenomena.

4. Are there any known AGNs or GRBs that pose a danger to Earth?

Currently, there are no known AGNs or GRBs that pose a direct danger to Earth. However, as our understanding of these phenomena continues to evolve, it is possible that new information may arise that could change this assessment.

5. What precautions are being taken to protect Earth from potential dangers posed by AGNs and GRBs?

While there is no current threat from AGNs or GRBs, scientists and organizations such as NASA are actively monitoring these phenomena and conducting research to better understand their potential impact on Earth. In the event of a potential threat, emergency response plans and strategies are in place to mitigate any potential danger to our planet.

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