Polarization effects in cosmic-ray acceleration by cyclotron autoresonance

Abstract

Employing a two-parameter model for representing the radiation field, the theory of cosmic-ray acceleration by cyclotron autoresonance is analytically generalized here to include any state of polarization. The equations are derived rigorously and used to investigate the dynamics of the nuclides ${}_1$H${}^1$, ${}_2$He${}^4$, ${}_{26}$Fe${}^{56}$, and ${}_{28}$Ni${}^{62}$, in severe astrophysical conditions. Single-particle calculations and many-particle simulations show that these nuclides can reach ZeV energies ($1ZeV=10^{21}$ eV) due to interaction with superintense radiation of wavelengths $\lambda =1$ and $10\mu$m, and $\lambda =50$ pm, and magnetic fields of strengths at the mega- and gigatesla levels. Examples employing radiation intensities in the range $10^{32}-10^{42}$ W/m${}^2$ are discussed.