Electromagnetic Radiation from a Relativistic Jet Induced by a Plane Gravitational Wave

Abstract

Electromagnetic radiation of a relativistic gas or plasma jet in the field of a plane gravitational wave is investigated. The gravitational wave is considered as a weak (linearized) field on flat Minkowski spacetime. It is assumed that the relativistic jet has large regions with uncompensated electric charge. The deformation of these areas under the action of a gravitational wave leads to the appearance of electric currents that generate electromagnetic radiation. The angular distribution of the intensity of this radiation is found. Cases are considered when the jet and the gravitational wave move in the same direction or towards each other.