AGN outflow feedback: Constraints from variability

Abstract

We present an overview on how variability can be used to constrain the location of the ionized outflow in nearby Active Galactic Nuclei using high-resolution X-ray spectroscopy. Without these constraints on the location of the outflow, the kinetic luminosity and mass loss rate can not be determined. We focus on the Seyfert 1 galaxy NGC 5548, which is arguably the best studied AGN on a timescale of 10 years. Our results show that frequent observations combined with long term monitoring, such as with the \textit{Rossi X-ray Timing Explorer (RXTE)} satellite, are crucial to investigate the effects of these outflows on their surroundings.

4 pages, 2 figures. To appear in the proceedings of "The Monster's Fiery Breath: Feedback in Galaxies, Groups, and Clusters", Eds. Sebastian Heinz, Eric Wilcots (AIP conference series)