The Evolution of the Magnetic Fields of Neutron Stars

Abstract

The evolution of the magnetic field strength plays a major role in the life history of a neutron star. In this article the observational evidence of field evolution, in particular that of field decay and magnetic alignment, are critically examined. It is concluded that the observed decay of the spindown torque on radio pulsars cannot be caused by a secular evolution of the “obliqueness” of the neutron star, as suggested by some authors. Recent observations provide a strong indication that the decay of the magnetic field strength of a neutron star may be closely related to its evolution in a binary system. Theoretical models for such an evolution are discussed.