Measuring interacting binary mass functions with X-ray fluorescence

TL;DR

This paper explores how upcoming high-resolution X-ray spectrometers can measure binary system parameters by detecting narrow Fe Kα lines from companion stars, offering a new method when optical data is unavailable.

Contribution

It models binary geometries and predicts Fe Kα line properties, demonstrating potential for microcalorimeters to measure radial velocities and constrain compact object masses.

Findings

Expected Kα equivalent width: 2-40 eV for q > 0.1

Microcalorimeters can measure radial velocities with 5-40 km/s precision

Method could work when optical measurements are not feasible

Abstract

The masses of compact objects in X-ray binaries are best constrained through dynamical measurements, relying on radial velocity curves of the companion star. In anticipation of upcoming high X-ray spectral resolution telescopes, we explore their potential to constrain the mass function of the compact object. Fe K line fluorescence is a common feature in the spectra of luminous X-ray binaries, with a Doppler-broadened component from the inner accretion disc extensively studied. If a corresponding narrow line from the X-ray irradiated companion can be isolated, this provides am opportunity to further constrain the binary system properties. Here, we model binary geometry to determine the companion star's solid angle, and deduce the iron line's equivalent width. We find that for systems with a mass ratio $q > 0.1$, the expected K${\alpha}$ equivalent width is 2-40 eV. Simulations using XSPEC indicate that new microcalorimeters will have sufficient resolution to be able to produce K${\alpha}$ emission line radial velocity measurements with precision of 5-40 km s$^{-1}$, for source continuum fluxes exceeding $10^{-12}$ erg cm$^{-2}$ s$^{-1}$. Several caveats need to be considered; this method is dependent on successful isolation of the narrow line from the broad component, and the observation of clear changes in velocity independent of scatter arising from complex wind and disc behaviour. These issues remain to be proven with microcalorimeters, but this method has the potential to constrain binary parameters where optical measurements are not viable.