A Relativistic Generalization of Fowler-Nordheim Cold Emission in Presence of Strong Magnetic Field

Abstract

A relativistic version of cold emission of electrons in presence of strong magnetic field, relevant for strongly magnetized neutron stars is obtained. It is found that in this scenario, a scalar type potential barrier does not allow quantum tunneling through the surface. Whereas, in presence of a vector type surface barrier, the probability of electron emission is much larger compared to the original Fowler-Nordheim cold emission of electrons. It is found that the relativistic version in presence of strong magnetic field does not follow exponential decay.

arXiv commentSeven pages REVTEX file, one.eps figure. Text is revised