High resolution three-dimensional hydrodynamic jet simulations of radio-loud AGN*

We showcase a set of increased resolution three-dimensional hydrodynamic relativistic jet simulations relevant to extragalactic radio galaxies and quasars.  We compare these results with our earlier simulations performed at lower resolutions. By doubling the number of zones per unit cell (or jet radius) from 10 to 20 in the Athena code, we can better identify turbulence in the jet cocoons and shock structures within the jet.  These allow us to more confidently characterize jet stability based on a few key parameters, such as the jet’s Lorentz factor and the density ratio of jet matter to the ambient medium. The greater detail allows us to better categorize each jet’s outcome as either a Fanaroff-Riley I (jet-dominated) or FR II (radio lobe-dominated) active galactic nucleus. We also focus on the differences in runs at higher and lower resolutions when all other parameters are kept the same and note greater jet turbulence and a decrease in cocoon symmetry at the higher resolution.