The Physics of Extragalactic Radio Sources

Extragalactic radio sources are among the most unusual and spectacular objects in the universe, with sizes in excess of millions of light years, radiated energies over ten times those of normal galaxies, and a unique morphology. They reveal some of the most dramatic physical events ever seen and provide essential clues to the basic evolutionary tracks followed by all galaxies and groups of galaxies. In "The Physics of Extragalactic Radio Sources", David S. De Young provides a clearly written overview of what is currenty known about these objects. A unique feature of the book is De Young's emphasis on the physical processes associated with extragalactic radio sources: their evolution, their environment, and their use as probes to solve other astrophysical problems. He also makes extensive use of the large amount of data now available from observations at x-ray, optical and radio wavelengths to illustrate his main points. "The Physics of Extragalactic Radio Sources" should be a comprehensive introduction to the field for graduate students and a useful summary for astrophysicists.