Evidence for Shocks as the Origin of Gamma-Ray Flares in Blazars

Authors :: Aller, M. F.
Hughes, P. A.
Aller, H. D.
Marscher, A. P.
Jorstad, S. G.
Hovatta, T.
Aller, M. C.
Publication Year :: 2011
Publisher :: arXiv, 2011.
Abstract: We present centimeter-band total flux density and linear polarization light curves illustrating the signature of shocks during radio band outbursts associated in time with gamma-ray flares detected by the Fermi LAT. The general characteristics of the spectral evolution during these events is well-explained by new radiative transfer simulations incorporating propagating oblique shocks and assuming an initially turbulent magnetic field. This finding supports the idea that oblique shocks in the jet are a viable explanation for activity from the radio to the gamma-ray band in at least some gamma-ray flares.<br />Comment: to appear in 2011 Fermi Symposium proceedings - eConf C110509