Published online by Cambridge University Press: 14 August 2015
Examination of the structures of extragalactic radio sources shows a distinct asymmetry in addition to the more general symmetries which are well known. The most likely explanation for the observed asymmetries is that ejection from the active nucleus occurs in only one direction at a time. This direction then switches back and forth to form the large scale double structures. Implications of this picture for the nuclear engine and the radio source environment are discussed.