scholarly journals Exploring the role of X-ray reprocessing and irradiation in the anomalous bright optical outbursts of A0538−66

2019 ◽  
Vol 624 ◽  
pp. A9 ◽  
Author(s):  
L. Ducci ◽  
S. Mereghetti ◽  
K. Hryniewicz ◽  
A. Santangelo ◽  
P. Romano
Keyword(s):  
Neutron Star ◽  
Binary System ◽  
Optical Emission ◽  
X Ray ◽  
Orbital Parameters ◽  
Uv Emission ◽  
Radial Density Distribution ◽  
Spherical Cloud ◽  
Gas Cloud ◽  
X Ray Binaries

Context. In 1981, the Be/X-ray binary A0538−66 showed outbursts characterized by high peak luminosities in the X-ray (Lx ≈ 1039 erg s−1) and optical (Lopt ≈ 3 × 1038 erg s−1) bands. The bright optical outbursts were qualitatively explained as X-ray reprocessing in a gas cloud surrounding the binary system. Aims. Since then, further important information about the properties of A0538−66 have been obtained, and sophisticated photoionization codes have been developed to calculate the radiation emerging from a gas nebula illuminated by a central X-ray source. In the light of the new information and tools available, we considered it was worth studying again the enhanced optical emission displayed by A0538−66 to understand the mechanisms responsible for these unique events among the class of Be/X-ray binaries. Methods. We performed about 105 simulations of a gas envelope surrounding the binary system photoionized by an X-ray source. We assumed for the shape of the gas cloud either a sphere or a circumstellar disc observed edge-on. We studied the effects of varying the main properties of the envelope (shape, density, slope of the power law density profile, size) and the influence of different input X-ray spectra and X-ray luminosity on the optical/UV emission emerging from the photoionized cloud. We determined the properties of the cloud and the input X-ray emission by comparing the computed spectra with the IUE spectrum and photometric UBV measurements obtained during the outburst of 29 April 1981. We also explored the role played by the X-ray heating of the surface of the donor star and the accretion disc irradiated by the X-ray emission of the neutron star. Results. We found that reprocessing in a spherical cloud with a shallow radial density distribution and size of about 3 × 1012 cm can reproduce the optical/UV emission observed on 29 April 1981. To our knowledge, this configuration has never been observed either in A0538−66 during other epochs or in other Be/X-ray binaries. We found, contrary to the case of most other Be/X-ray binaries, that the optical/UV radiation produced by the X-ray heating of the surface of the donor star irradiated by the neutron star is non-negligible, due to the particular orbital parameters of this system that bring the neutron star very close to its companion.

scholarly journals Torque Reversals in Disk Accreting Pulsars

1998 ◽  
Vol 15 (2) ◽  
pp. 250-253
Author(s):  
Jianke Li ◽  
Dayal T. Wickramasinghe
Keyword(s):  
Neutron Star ◽  
Binary System ◽  
Recent Work ◽  
Time Scale ◽  
Accretion Rate ◽  
Future Studies ◽  
X Ray ◽  
The Past ◽  
X Ray Binaries ◽  
Coherent Picture

AbstractX-ray binaries in which the accreting component is a neutron star commonly exhibit significant changes in their spin. In the system Cen X-3, a disk accreting binary system, the pulsar was observed to spin up at a rate ḟ = 8 × 10−13 Hz s−1 when averaged over the past twenty years, but significant fluctuations were observed above this mean. Recent BASTE observations have disclosed that these fluctuations are much larger than previously noted, and appeared to be a system characteristic. The change in the spin state from spin-up to spin-down or vice-versa occurs on a time scale that is much shorter than the instrument can resolve (≤1 d), but appears always to be a similar amplitude, and to occur stochastically. These observations have posed a problem for the conventional torque–mass accretion relation for accreting pulsars, because in this model the spin rate is closely related to the accretion rate, and the latter needs to be finely tuned and to change abruptly to explain the observations. Here we review recent work in this direction and present a coherent picture that explains these observations. We also draw attention to some outstanding problems for future studies.

scholarly journals The connection between the UV/optical and X-ray emission in the neutron star low-mass X-ray binary Aql X-1

2020 ◽  
Vol 493 (1) ◽  
pp. 940-951
Author(s):  
E López-Navas ◽  
N Degenaar ◽  
A S Parikh ◽  
J V Hernández Santisteban ◽  
J van den Eijnden
Keyword(s):  
Neutron Star ◽  
Optical Emission ◽  
Optical Observations ◽  
Electromagnetic Spectrum ◽  
Strongly Correlated ◽  
X Ray ◽  
Soft State ◽  
Low Mass ◽  
X Ray Binaries ◽  
Hysteresis Behaviour

ABSTRACT Accreting neutron stars and black holes in low-mass X-ray binaries (LMXBs) radiate across the electromagnetic spectrum. Linking the emission produced at different wavelengths can provide valuable information about the accretion process and any associated outflows. In this work, we study simultaneous X-ray and ultraviolet (UV)/optical observations of the neutron star LMXB Aql X-1, obtained with the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory during its 2013, 2014, and 2016 accretion outbursts. We find that the UV/optical and X-ray emission are strongly correlated during all three outbursts. For the 2013 and 2014 episodes, which had the best Swift sampling, we find that the correlation between the UV/optical and X-ray fluxes is significantly steeper during the decay (soft state) of the outburst than during the rise (hard-to-soft state). We observe a UV/optical hysteresis behaviour that is likely linked to the commonly known X-ray spectral hysteresis pattern. For the decays of the three outbursts, we obtain a correlation index that cannot be directly explained by any single model. We suspect that this is a result of multiple emission processes contributing to the UV/optical emission, but we discuss alternative explanations. Based on these correlations, we discuss which mechanisms are likely dominating the UV/optical emission of Aql X-1.

On the nature of the X-ray outbursts in Be/X-ray binaries

2018 ◽  
Vol 14 (S346) ◽  
pp. 146-148
Author(s):  
Jingzhi Yan ◽  
Wei Liu ◽  
Peng Zhang ◽  
Qingzhong Liu
Keyword(s):  
Neutron Star ◽  
Compact Object ◽  
Optical Emission ◽  
Light Curves ◽  
High Mass ◽  
Circumstellar Disk ◽  
X Ray ◽  
Be Star ◽  
The Relationship ◽  
X Ray Binaries

AbstractBe/X-ray binaries are a major subclass of high mass X-ray binaries. Two different X-ray outbursts are displayed in the X-ray light curves of such systems. It is generally believed that the X-ray outbursts are connected with the neutron star periastron passage of the circumstellar disk around the Be star. The optical emission of the Be star should be very important to understand the X-ray emission of the compact object. We have monitored several Be/X-ray binaries photometrically and spectroscopically in the optical band. The relationship between the optical emission and X-ray activity is described, which is very useful to explain the X-ray outbursts in Be/X-ray binaries.

scholarly journals Recycled Pulsars and Low Mass X-Ray Binaries

1992 ◽  
Vol 128 ◽  
pp. 209-212 ◽  
Author(s):  
G. S. Bisnovatyi-Kogan
Keyword(s):  
Neutron Star ◽  
Binary System ◽  
Globular Clusters ◽  
Massive Star ◽  
Radio Pulsar ◽  
X Ray ◽  
Normal Star ◽  
Low Mass ◽  
X Ray Binaries

AbstractA magnetized neutron star may appear as a radio pulsar or an X-ray source. The latter is connected with a binary system where accretion from a normal star onto the neutron star produces X-ray emission. At the end of the evolution of a normal non-massive star, accretion stops and the neutron star becomes a recycled radio pulsar. Further evolution may lead to an additional transition from a radio pulsar to a low mass X-ray binary (LMXB). The formation of a single recycled pulsar is considered and a new mechanism of “enhanced evaporation” in globular clusters is analyzed.

scholarly journals Aspects of Mass Transfer in X-ray Binaries

1996 ◽  
Vol 160 ◽  
pp. 535-536
Author(s):  
Thomas M. Tauris
Keyword(s):  
Mass Transfer ◽  
Binary System ◽  
Core Mass ◽  
X Ray ◽  
Orbital Parameters ◽  
Binary Pulsars ◽  
Compact Binary ◽  
Period Distribution ◽  
Orbital Periods ◽  
X Ray Binaries

The final stage of mass transfer in a compact binary system is very important for calculating the orbital parameters of the resulting system. We demonstrate how simple ‘bifurcation mechanisms‘ may lead to the existence of three classes of binary millisecond pulsars and a possible gap in the orbital period distribution. Recent discoveries indicate that such a gap could exist (see Fig. 2).Furthermore, we demonstrate that the expected theoretical correlation (e.g. Joss et al. 1987, Rappaport et al. 1995) between orbital periods and white dwarf companion masses does not seem to fit observations of wide-orbit lowmass binary pulsars (LMBPs). It is interesting to notice that the five LMBPs with Porb> 100dall have companion masses which are lighter (at the ∼80 % confidence level on average) than expected from the theoretical core-mass period relation.

scholarly journals SS433 and the nature of ultra-luminous X-ray sources

2006 ◽  
Vol 2 (S238) ◽  
pp. 219-224
Author(s):  
P. A. Charles ◽  
A. D. Barnes ◽  
J. Casares ◽  
J. S. Clark ◽  
R. Cornelisse ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Black Hole ◽  
Neutron Star ◽  
High Resolution ◽  
Binary System ◽  
Compact Object ◽  
High Mass ◽  
X Ray ◽  
New Class ◽  
The Galaxy ◽  
X Ray Binaries

AbstractThe prototypical micro-quasar, SS433, one of the most bizarre objects in the Galaxy, is a weak X-ray source, yet the kinetic energy of its relativistic, precessing jets is vastly greater. In spite of its importance as the nearest example of directly observable relativistic phenomena, we know remarkably little about the nature of this binary system. There are ongoing arguments not only about the mass of the compact object, but even as to whether it is a black hole or a neutron star, an argument that recent high resolution optical spectroscopy has contributed to.Combined with the INTEGRAL discovery of a new class of highly obscured galactic high-mass X-ray binaries, one of which has been found to precess on a similar timescale to SS433, we suggest that these would indeed be seen by external observers as ULXs, once additional effects such as beaming (either relativistic or geometrical) are included.

scholarly journals X-ray and UV emission of the ultrashort-period, low-mass eclipsing binary system BX Trianguli

2018 ◽  
Vol 619 ◽  
pp. A138
Author(s):  
V. Perdelwitz ◽  
S. Czesla ◽  
J. Robrade ◽  
T. Pribulla ◽  
J. H. M. M. Schmitt
Keyword(s):  
Binary System ◽  
Light Curve ◽  
Binary Systems ◽  
Uv Light ◽  
Close Binary ◽  
Eclipsing Binary ◽  
X Ray ◽  
Uv Emission ◽  
Low Mass ◽  
Orbital Modulation

Context.Close binary systems provide an excellent tool for determining stellar parameters such as radii and masses with a high degree of precision. Due to the high rotational velocities, most of these systems exhibit strong signs of magnetic activity, postulated to be the underlying reason for radius inflation in many of the components. Aims.We extend the sample of low-mass binary systems with well-known X-ray properties. Methods.We analyze data from a singular XMM-Newton pointing of the close, low-mass eclipsing binary system BX Tri. The UV light curve was modeled with the eclipsing binary modeling tool PHOEBE and data acquired with the EPIC cameras was analyzed to search for hints of orbital modulation. Results.We find clear evidence of orbital modulation in the UV light curve and show that PHOEBE is fully capable of modeling data within this wavelength range. Comparison to a theoretical flux prediction based on PHOENIX models shows that the majority of UV emission is of photospheric origin. While the X-ray light curve does exhibit strong variations, the signal-to-noise ratio of the observation is insufficient for a clear detection of signs of orbital modulation. There is evidence of a Neupert-like correlation between UV and X-ray data.

scholarly journals A minimal timescale for the continuum in 4U 1608-52 and Aql X-1

2021 ◽  
Vol 502 (1) ◽  
pp. L72-L78
Author(s):  
K Mohamed ◽  
E Sonbas ◽  
K S Dhuga ◽  
E Göğüş ◽  
A Tuncer ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Black Hole ◽  
Neutron Star ◽  
Power Spectra ◽  
Light Curves ◽  
State Transitions ◽  
Strong Positive Correlation ◽  
Present Evidence ◽  
X Ray ◽  
X Ray Binaries ◽  
The Continuum

ABSTRACT Similar to black hole X-ray binary transients, hysteresis-like state transitions are also seen in some neutron-star X-ray binaries. Using a method based on wavelets and light curves constructed from archival Rossi X-ray Timing Explorer observations, we extract a minimal timescale over the complete range of transitions for 4U 1608-52 during the 2002 and 2007 outbursts and the 1999 and 2000 outbursts for Aql X-1. We present evidence for a strong positive correlation between this minimal timescale and a similar timescale extracted from the corresponding power spectra of these sources.

scholarly journals A Machine Learning Approach For Classifying Low-mass X-ray Binaries Based On Their Compact Object Nature

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
R Pattnaik ◽  
K Sharma ◽  
K Alabarta ◽  
D Altamirano ◽  
M Chakraborty ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Machine Learning ◽  
Black Hole ◽  
Neutron Star ◽  
Binary Systems ◽  
Compact Object ◽  
X Ray ◽  
Average Accuracy ◽  
Machine Learning Approach ◽  
Low Mass ◽  
X Ray Binaries

Abstract Low Mass X-ray binaries (LMXBs) are binary systems where one of the components is either a black hole or a neutron star and the other is a less massive star. It is challenging to unambiguously determine whether a LMXB hosts a black hole or a neutron star. In the last few decades, multiple observational works have tried, with different levels of success, to address this problem. In this paper, we explore the use of machine learning to tackle this observational challenge. We train a random forest classifier to identify the type of compact object using the energy spectrum in the energy range 5-25 keV obtained from the Rossi X-ray Timing Explorer archive. We report an average accuracy of 87±13% in classifying the spectra of LMXB sources. We further use the trained model for predicting the classes for LMXB systems with unknown or ambiguous classification. With the ever-increasing volume of astronomical data in the X-ray domain from present and upcoming missions (e.g., SWIFT, XMM-Newton, XARM, ATHENA, NICER), such methods can be extremely useful for faster and robust classification of X-ray sources and can also be deployed as part of the data reduction pipeline.

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