Patterns of variability in gamma-ray blazars

TL;DR

This study analyzes simultaneous optical-to-X-ray variability in four bright gamma-ray blazars using Swift data, revealing spectral flattening in 3C 279 and discussing its implications.

Contribution

It provides a systematic analysis of multi-wavelength variability in gamma-ray blazars, highlighting spectral features and their potential physical implications.

Findings

3C 279 shows spectral flattening in X-ray spectra.

Spectral flattening is confined to specific flux regions.

Implications for blazar emission mechanisms are discussed.

Abstract

Preliminary results of a systematic study on the simultaneous optical-to-X-rays variability in blazars are presented. Data from Swift observations of four bright gamma-ray blazars (3C 279, ON+231, S5 0716+71, PKS 2155-304) have been analyzed, compared, and discussed. Specifically, 3C 279 shows a variable flattening in the low energy part of the X-ray spectrum that appears to be confined in a specific X-ray vs optical/UV fluxes region. Some implications are shortly analyzed.