Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Zeeman Effect Studies Of Magnetic Fields In The Milky Way, Kristen Lynn Thompson

Theses and Dissertations--Physics and Astronomy

The interstellar medium (ISM) of our Galaxy, and of others, is pervaded by ultra low-density gas and dust, as well as magnetic fields. Embedded magnetic fields have been known to play an important role in the structure and dynamics of the ISM. However, the ability to accurately quantify these fields has plagued astronomers for many decades. Unfortunately, the experimental techniques for measuring the strength and direction of magnetic fields are few, and they are observationally challenging. The only direct method of measuring the magnetic field is through the Zeeman effect.

The goal of this dissertation is to expand upon the …