Study of Ultra-High-Energy Physical Processes Associated with Large-Scale Structure Formation in the Universe

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Large-scale structures in the Universe such as galaxies and clusters of galaxies are thought to have formed through successive merging events driven by gravity, which are likely accompanied by formation of shock waves that can naturally accelerate particles to high energies and generate gamma-rays. Such phenomena may possibly be the origin of the mysterious ultra-high-energy cosmic rays or unidentified gamma-ray source. We have undertaken theoretical investigations of such physical processes, and also attempted to test them with current X-ray and gamma-ray observations, obtaining results that support at least some of the relevant predictions. Future observations with higher precision should provide a deeper understanding of particle acceleration phenomena on the largest scales in the Universe.