Energetics of quasars and radio galaxies

Simple estimates suffice to indicate that in quasars and radio galaxies very large amounts of non-thermal energy are released. In the case of quasars where the spectral distribution and polarization indicate that most of the radiation is likely to be non-thermal, the observed flux F at radio, infrared, optical and X-ray wavelengths is the starting point. Assuming isotropic radiation and a cosmological interpretation of the redshift z the luminosity L may then be obtained. A more direct estimate of the total relativistic particle energy may be obtained for radio galaxies and quasars with radio emission in an extended volume. Acceleration mechanisms are also discussed. (Auth.)