The uniquely large dimensions of Giant radio galaxies (GRGs) make it possible to probe for stringent limits on total energy content, Faraday rotation, Alfven speeds, particle transport and radiation loss times. All of these quantities are more stringently limited or specified for GRG's than in more 'normal' FRII radio sources. I discuss how both global and detailed analyses of GRG's lead to constraints on the CR electron acceleration mechanisms in GRG's and by extension in all FRII radio sources. The properties of GRG's appear to rule out large scale Fermi-type shock acceleration. The plasma parameters in these systems set up conditions that are favorable for magnetic reconnection, or some other very efficient process of conversion of magnetic to particle energy. We conclude that whatever mechanism operates in GRG's is probably the primary extragalactic CR acceleration mechanism in the Universe.

• PHILIPP P. KRONBER(GLos Alamos National Laboratory, IGPP)