Location and origin of gamma-rays in blazars

TL;DR

This paper investigates the origin and physical conditions of gamma-ray emission in blazars by combining VLBI imaging and gamma-ray variability data, revealing a connection between jet morphology and gamma-ray flares.

Contribution

It presents a novel analysis linking gamma-ray flux variability with jet kinematics and morphology in blazars, advancing understanding of emission regions.

Findings

Gamma-ray emission correlates with mm-VLBI core flux.

Inner jet morphology is connected to gamma-ray flares.

Results suggest emission originates near the jet base.

Abstract

One of the most intriguing and challenging quests of current astrophysics is to understand the physical conditions and processes responsible for production of high-energy particles, and emission of \gamma-rays. A combination of high-resolution Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) images with broadband flux variability measurements is a unique way to probe the emission mechanisms at the bases of jets. Our analysis of \gamma-ray flux variability observed by the Fermi-LAT (Large Area Telescope) along with the parsec-scale jet kinematics suggests that the $\gamma$-ray emission in blazar S5 0716+714 has a significant correlation with the mm-VLBI core flux and the orientation of jet outflow on parsec scales. These results indicate that the inner jet morphology has a tight connection with the observed $\gamma$-ray flares. An overview of our current understanding on high-energy radiation processes, their origin, and location is presented here.