paper

Probing Magnetic Fields and Acceleration Mechanisms in Blazar Jets with X-ray Polarimetry

arXiv:2105.08401

Abstract

X-ray polarimetry promises us an unprecedented look at the structure of magnetic fields and on the processes at the base of acceleration of particles up to ultrarelativistic energies in relativistic jets. Crucial pieces of information are expected from observations of blazars (that are characterized by the presence of a jet pointing close to the Earth), in particular of the subclass defined by a synchrotron emission extending to the X-ray band (so-called high synchrotron peak blazars, HSP). In this review, I give an account of some of the models and numerical simulations developed to predict the polarimetric properties of HSP at high energy, contrasting the predictions of scenarios assuming particle acceleration at shock fronts with those that are based on magnetic reconnection, and I discuss the prospects for the observations of the upcoming Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) satellite.

arXiv comment18 pages, 8 figures, 1 table. A review to appear in Galaxies, Special Issue "Polarimetry as a Probe of Magnetic Fields in AGN Jets"

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