Hadron-Initiated Emission Processes in Blazar Jets

Abstract

Despite many advances in AGN physics, observationally as well as theoretically, the relativistic matter composition of extragalactic jets remains concealed. In contrast to the so called leptonic AGN emission models, hadronic models consider relativistic protons to be present in those sources, in addition to the relativistic electrons and positrons, and possibly cold material. Here I briefly discuss most processes that are commonly believed to characterize the so-called hadronic AGN emission models, and these include leptonic as well as hadronic processes. As an application predictions for the neutrino output during the TeV-flare of 3C 279 in 2006 are provided.

Searching for tau neutrinos with Cherenkov telescopes

“…1, a compilation of fluxes expected from AGN flares are shown. Flux-1 and Flux-2 are calculations for Feb 23, 2006 γ-ray flare of 3C 279 [27]. Flux-3 and Flux-4 represent predictions for PKS 2155-304 in low-state and high-state, respectively [28].…”

“…The total observable rates (number of expected log (E/GeV) [27]. Flux-3 and Flux-4 represent predictions for PKS 2155-304 [28].…”

Extending the Search for Neutrino Point Sources with IceCube above the Horizon

“…For the blazar 3C279, we considered the possibility of variable emission, motivated by the reports on a gamma-ray flare by MAGIC [19]. Since hadronic acceleration models seem to be favored for this event [20], we performed a time dependent test of neutrino fluxes predicted in [21]. The most promising periods for flares during the livetime for the analysis were selected based on X-ray and optical observations from [22], requiring enhanced emission in both wavebands.…”

“…No events were found during the selected periods. We derived a limit on the neutrino fluence of 3.7 × 10 −3 erg cm −2 in the energy range 8.3 × 10 5 to 7.6 × 10 7 GeV, based on the model spectrum from [21] shown in Fig. 4.…”

Search for tau neutrinos at PeV energies and beyond with the MAGIC telescopes

“…As we can see in the plot the height cut leads also to a smaller (about factor two) acceptance. [17]. Flux-3 and Flux-4 represent predictions for PKS 2155-304 [18].…”