Linear Polarization as a Probe of Gamma Ray Flaring Blazar Jets

M. F. Aller; H. D. Aller; P. A. Hughes

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arXiv · 0912.3176

Linear Polarization as a Probe of Gamma Ray Flaring Blazar Jets

M. F. Aller·H. D. Aller·P. A. Hughes

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Abstract

We describe and present initial results from a Fermi cycle 2 program designed to monitor the behavior of the centimeter-band linear polarization and total flux density emitted by gamma-ray-bright blazars during flaring. The goal of the program is to identify changes in the magnetic field structure in the radio jet associated with gamma-ray flaring and ultimately to test whether gamma-ray flaring is associated with the onset of shocks in the radio jet. Light curves illustrating radio band variability patterns are shown for sample program sources.

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M. F. Aller, H. D. Aller, P. A. Hughes. 2009-12-16. Linear Polarization as a Probe of Gamma Ray Flaring Blazar Jets. https://arxiv.org/abs/0912.3176

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