Magnetic fields of neutron stars in X-ray binaries

Abstract

A substantial fraction of the known neutron stars resides in X-ray binaries -- systems in which one compact object accretes matter from a companion star. Neutron stars in X-ray binaries have magnetic fields among the highest found in the Universe, spanning at least the range from $\sim 10^8$ to several 10${}^{13}$ G. The magnetospheres around these neutron stars have a strong influence on the accretion process, which powers most of their emission. The magnetic field intensity and geometry, are among the main factors responsible for the large variety of spectral and timing properties observed in the X-ray energy range, making these objects unique laboratories to study the matter behavior and the radiation processes in magnetic fields unaccessible on Earth. In this paper we review the main observational aspects related to the presence of magnetic fields in neutron star X-ray binaries and some methods that are used to estimate their strength.

arXiv comment16 pages, 9 figures, invited topical review, to be published in The Strongest Magnetic Fields in the Universe (Space Sciences Series of ISSI, Springer), Space Science Reviews, accepted

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