The interstellar medium

Abstract

Observations and models of interstellar matter in the Milky Way are reviewed. The general structure of the gas layer, high velocity gas, and heavy element depletion patterns are outlined. The IUE survey of Fe and Si abundances, and the correlation of Fe and Si depletions with infrared cirrus are described. Studies of neutral hydrogen may disagree with three-phase models of the interstellar medium, dominated by supernova remnants. The effects of shock waves on interstellar medium structure, the grain population, and refractory element abundances are considered. It appears that the frequency, distribution, energy, and dynamical effects of supernovae in the galaxy may be overestimated.