Variations in the spectral index of the galactic radio continuum emission in the northern hemisphere

A study is made of the radio continuum emission of the Galaxy in the North Celestial Hemisphere. The variation of spectral index over a range of frequencies between 38 and 1420 MHz is derived after consideration of the accuracy of the temperature scales and zero levels of the surveys. Most of the features with large angular scales appear to be associated with the radio loops I and III even at considerable angular distances from their ridge lines. The spectral index variation of the radio loops is discussed in the context of diffusive shock acceleration of cosmic ray electrons. (author)