Observational constraints on stellar wind models of broad emission lines in AGNs

Details Observational constraints on stellar wind models of broad emission lines in AGNs Observational constraints on stellar wind models of broad emission lines in AGNs

May 1992

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1992aipc..254..568b&link_type=abstract

In: Testing the AGN paradigm; Proceedings of the 2nd Annual Topical Astrophysics Conference, Univ. of Maryland, College Park, Oc

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Astronomy

8

Active Galactic Nuclei, Astronomical Models, Black Holes (Astronomy), Giant Stars, Spectral Line Width, Stellar Winds, Constraints, Optical Thickness, Stellar Evolution, Thomson Scattering, Variability

Scientific paper

We show that observational constraints exclude all models which involve stellar winds as the main sites of Broad Emission Line (BEL) production in AGNs. To obtain a covering factor consistent with observations, the nucleus must contain a large population of giant stars with strong winds. However, the time scales required for stars to evolve to a giant state are shown to be much longer than the time scale for stars to be destroyed by stellar collisions. The models are shown to be constrained by the large amounts of matter liberated by star collisions and stellar winds. If this matter is accreted by the black hole, then the mass-to-radiation conversion efficiency must be unreasonably low, whereas loss of this matter in a wind would require energy injection at a rate exceeding the UV radiation output. Furthermore, it is difficult to avoid a Thomson optical thickness which is so large that the fast X-ray variability would be smeared out.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Observational constraints on stellar wind models of broad emission lines in AGNs does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Observational constraints on stellar wind models of broad emission lines in AGNs, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Observational constraints on stellar wind models of broad emission lines in AGNs will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1513854