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Theory of active galactic nucleiThe involvement of accretion disks around supermassive black holes in the theory of active galactic nuclei (AGN) is discussed. The physics of thin and thick accretion disks is discussed and the partition between thermal and nonthermal energy production in supermassive disks is seen as uncertain. The thermal limit cycle may operate in supermassive disks (Shields, 1985), with accumulation of gas in the disk for periods of 10 to the 4th to 10 to the 7th years, punctuated by briefer outbursts during which the mass is rapidly transferred to smaller radii. An extended X-ray source in AGN is consistent with observations (Tennant and Mushotsky, 1983), and a large wind mass loss rate exceeding the central accretion rate means that only a fraction of the mass entering the disk will reach the central object; the rest being lost to the wind. Controversy in the relationship between the broad lines and the disk is also discussed.
Document ID
19860049813
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
External Source(s)
Authors
Shields, G. A.
(Texas, University Austin, United States)
Date Acquired
August 12, 2013
Publication Date
February 1, 1986
Publication Information
Publication: Astronomical Society of the Pacific, Publications
Volume: 98
ISSN: 0004-6280
Subject Category
Astrophysics
Accession Number
86A34551
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSG-7232
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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