Black Hole Spin in AGN and GBHCs |
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Authors: | Christopher S Reynolds Laura W Brenneman David Garofalo |
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Institution: | (1) Department of Astronomy, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, U.S.A.;(2) Department of Physics, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, U.S.A. |
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Abstract: | We discuss constraints on black hole spin and spin-related astrophysics as derived from X-ray spectroscopy. After a brief
discussion about the robustness with which X-ray spectroscopy can be used to probe strong gravity, we summarize how these
techniques can constrain black hole spin. In particular, we highlight XMM-Newton studies of the Seyfert galaxy MCG-6-30-15 and the stellar-mass black hole GX 339-4. The broad X-ray iron line profile, together
with reasonable and general astrophysical assumptions, allow a non-rotating black hole to be rejected in both of these sources.
If we make the stronger assertion of no emission from within the innermost stable circular orbit, the MCG-6-30-15 data constrain
the dimensionless spin parameter to be a > 0.93. Furthermore, these XMM-Newton data are already providing evidence for exotic spin-related astrophysics in the central regions of this object. We conclude
with a discussion of the impact that Constellation-X will have on the study of strong gravity and black hole spin. |
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Keywords: | accretion disks black hole physics |
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