What is centimeter continuum emission?

In summary, centimeter continuum emission refers to radio emission from ionized gas or dust particles in astronomical objects at wavelengths of 1-10 centimeters. It is caused by thermal radiation and can provide information about temperature, density, composition, magnetic fields, and dynamics of these objects. It is observed using radio telescopes and can be emitted by various objects such as stars, galaxies, supernova remnants, and molecular clouds, as well as the cosmic microwave background radiation.
  • #1
Sanjay87
20
0
Hi,

In a few journals I've come across the term "centimeter continuum emission" - e.g. 21 cm continuum emission. What is meant by this? And how can it be continuum when it has a discrete cm value?

Thanks,
San
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
  • #2
The reference is to continuum emission at a particular wavelength. Imagine an emission continuum. It's quite possible to specify the flux at a given wavelength isn't it. For example, the continuum emission from a blue star is less at a red wavelength (say, 700 nm) than a blue wavelength (say, 400 nm).
 

1. What is centimeter continuum emission?

Centimeter continuum emission refers to the radio emission at wavelengths of approximately 1-10 centimeters, which is a part of the electromagnetic spectrum. It is typically produced by thermal radiation from ionized gas or dust particles in astronomical objects.

2. What causes centimeter continuum emission?

Centimeter continuum emission is caused by thermal radiation from ionized gas or dust particles in astronomical objects. The atoms or molecules in these objects are excited and emit radiation as they cool down.

3. What can centimeter continuum emission tell us about astronomical objects?

Centimeter continuum emission can provide information about the temperature, density, and composition of astronomical objects. It can also help us study the magnetic fields and dynamics of these objects.

4. How is centimeter continuum emission observed?

Centimeter continuum emission is observed using radio telescopes, which are designed to detect radio waves from space. These telescopes are typically large and can be located on the ground or in space.

5. What are some examples of astronomical objects that emit centimeter continuum emission?

Some examples of astronomical objects that emit centimeter continuum emission include stars, galaxies, supernova remnants, and molecular clouds. This type of emission can also be observed from the cosmic microwave background radiation, which is the remnant radiation from the Big Bang.

Similar threads

Replies
8
Views
2K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
358
Replies
16
Views
1K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
5
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • Classical Physics
Replies
0
Views
75
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
2
Views
1K
Back
Top