Diffusive shock acceleration in the lobes of the Serpens triple radio source

Recent observations of the triple radio source in the Serpens star formation region have shown large proper motions of the lobes. Their radio spectral index is characteristic of nonthermal emission. The possibility that this is synchrotron radiation from relativistic electrons is investigated. Particle acceleration can occur at the bow shock (bullet and jet model) or at the jet termination shock. The rates for ion-neutral damping and for the self-excitation of magnetic field fluctuations are compared. High levels of MHD turbulence and/or high Alfvenic Mach numbers are required to produce a power-law energy spectrum of electrons up to Lorentz factors of 1000. Diffusive shock acceleration of particles is then very efficient.