Gamma Ray Bursters
One of the Most Volatile Phenomena in the Universe
Gamma ray bursters are among the most violent phenomena in the visible universe. In fact, if one occurred near the Earth it would incinerate the atmosphere in seconds. Fi
A Gamma Ray Burster is actually a theoretical object that is responsible for the observed phenomena of gamma ray bursts (GRBs). Gamma ray bursts emanate at random throughout the visible universe, and are observed at an approximate frequency of once per day.
Gamma Rays are the most energetic form of light. Though we often think of visible light associated with the colors of the rainbow, the full spectrum of light extends in both directs from visible light, more energetic and less energetic. On the more energetic side are ultraviolet, microwaves, X-rays, and gamma rays, and on the less energetic side are infrared and radio waves to give a few examples. All light is made from photons. The more energetic the light, the faster the photon oscillates as it travels through space. A photon always travels forward at the same speed - the speed of light - but can hold extra energy by oscillating up and down at right angles to its forward direction.
Photons can interact with other particles, particularly electrons, which hold matter together through the electromagnetic force. Chemistry is based on the ways that electrons glue matter together with the electromagnetic force - all life depends on the stickiness of electrons.
If a single gamma ray collides with an electron, some of the energy in the photon will be transferred to the electron, and it will be knocked out of its position. On a larger scale gamma rays, which are also produced in nuclear blasts, can have a devastating effect on life, causing chemical bonds to degrade, and in severe cases, completely and instantaneously incinerate organic based objects.
Fortunately, GRBs pose little threat to us on Earth. Astrophysicists are beginning to understand what causes them. Gamma ray bursters are now thought to be the result of a specific type of star collapsing into a black hole. These stars must be between 40 and 100 solar masses, and will create a hypernova when they die. These stars are so massive that they live relatively short lives, and die young. Since we know how big they are and understand the characteristics of their life cycle, we can identify them in our galaxy, and we know that there aren't any impending collapses nearby.
