The broad-band X-ray spectrum of Mrk 3

Details The broad-band X-ray spectrum of Mrk 3 The broad-band X-ray spectrum of Mrk 3

1998-04-23

arxiv.org/abs/astro-ph/9804247v1

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Astrophysics

11 pages. 3 postscript figures. Latex. Accepted for publication in MNRAS

Scientific paper

10.1046/j.1365-8711.1998.01750.x

We have used non-simultaneous Ginga, ASCA and ROSAT observations to investigate the complex X-ray spectrum of the Seyfert 2 galaxy Mrk 3. We find that the composite spectrum can be well described in terms of a heavily cut-off hard X-ray continuum, iron K_alpha emission and a soft X-ray excess, with spectral variability confined to changes in the continuum normalisation and the flux in the iron line. Previous studies have suggested that the power-law continuum in Mrk 3 is unusually hard. We obtain a canonical value for the energy index of the continuum (i.e. alpha approx 0.7) when a warm absorber (responsible for an absorption edge observed near 8 keV) is included in the spectral model. Alternatively, the inclusion of a reflection component yields a comparable power-law index. The soft-excess flux cannot be modelled solely in terms of pure electron scattering of the underlying power-law continuum. However, a better fit to the spectral data is obtained if we include the effects of both emission and absorption in a partially photoionized scattering medium. In particular the spectral feature prominent at $\sim 0.9$ keV could represent O VIII recombination radiation produced in a hot photoionized medium. We discuss our results in the context of other recent studies of the soft X-ray spectra of Seyfert 2 galaxies.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

The broad-band X-ray spectrum of Mrk 3 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 The broad-band X-ray spectrum of Mrk 3, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and The broad-band X-ray spectrum of Mrk 3 will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-672226