Abstract
Maximum likehood analysis can be used to separate the intrinsic
dispersion of spectral index from the measuring errors for X-ray
observed samples of active galactic nuclei (AGN). A finite sigma tends
to introduce selection biases, compels the use of large samples in
searches for intrinsic properties, and can mask quite substantial trends
in X-ray spectral index with other source properties. The property which
appears to affect the mean spectral index is the relative strength of
radio emission. The connection between radio and X-ray luminosity is
discussed. Observed trends to flatter AGN X-ray spectral components with
higher energy may be important in evaluating the composite spectrum of
AGN contributing to the cosmic X-ray background.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 719-726 |
| Journal | In ESA, The 23rd ESLAB Symposium on Two Topics in X Ray Astronomy. Volume 2: AGN and the X Ray Background p 719-726 (SEE N90-25841 19-89) |
| Volume | 296 |
| Publication status | Published - 1 Nov 1989 |
Keywords
- Active Galactic Nuclei
- Star Distribution
- X Ray Sources
- X Ray Spectra
- Background Radiation
- Bl Lacertae Objects
- Cosmic Rays
- Galactic Radiation
- Luminosity
- Maximum Likelihood Estimates
- Quasars
- Spectral Signatures