A new lepto-hadronic model applied to the first simultaneous multiwavelength data set for Cygnus X--1

TL;DR

This paper introduces a semi-analytical, multi-zone jet model for Cygnus X--1, applying it to simultaneous multiwavelength data to explore leptonic and hadronic origins of its emission, aiming to resolve the debate with future TeV observations.

Contribution

The work presents the first application of a comprehensive jet model to simultaneous multiwavelength data of Cygnus X--1, incorporating dynamical properties and radiative transfer for both leptonic and hadronic scenarios.

Findings

Model fits the broad-band spectral energy distribution of Cygnus X--1.

Sensitive TeV gamma-ray observations could distinguish between leptonic and hadronic processes.

The model provides insights into jet dynamics and emission mechanisms in Cygnus X--1.

Abstract

Cygnus X--1 is the first Galactic source confirmed to host an accreting black hole. It has been detected across the entire electromagnetic spectrum from radio to GeV $\gamma$-rays. The source's radio through mid-infrared radiation is thought to originate from the relativistic jets. The observed high degree of linear polarisation in the MeV X-rays suggests that the relativistic jets dominate in this regime as well, whereas a hot accretion flow dominates the soft X-ray band. The origin of the GeV non-thermal emission is still debated, with both leptonic and hadronic scenarios deemed to be viable. In this work, we present results from a new semi-analytical, multi-zone jet model applied to the broad-band spectral energy distribution of Cygnus X--1 for both leptonic and hadronic scenarios. We try to break this degeneracy by fitting the first-ever high-quality, simultaneous multiwavelength data set obtained from the CHOCBOX campaign (Cygnus X--1 Hard state Observations of a Complete Binary Orbit in X-rays). Our model parameterises dynamical properties, such as the jet velocity profile, the magnetic field, and the energy density. Moreover, the model combines these dynamical properties with a self-consistent radiative transfer calculation including secondary cascades, both of leptonic and hadronic origin. We conclude that sensitive TeV $\gamma$-ray telescopes like Cherenkov Telescope Array (CTA) will definitively answer the question of whether hadronic processes occur inside the relativistic jets of Cygnus X--1.