On Pair Content and Variability of Subparsec Jets in Quasars

Accepted for publication in the Astrophysical Journal X–ray observations of blazars associated with the OVV (Optically Violently Variable) quasars put strong constraints on the e + e − pair content of radio-loud quasar jets. From those observations, we infer that jets in quasars contain many more e + e − pairs than protons, but dynamically are still dominated by protons. In particular, we show that pure e + e − jet models can be excluded, as they overpredict soft X–ray radiation; likewise, pure proton-electron jets can be excluded, as they predict too weak nonthermal X–ray radiation. An intermediate case is viable. We demonstrate that jets which are initially proton-electron (“proto-jets”) can be pair-loaded via interaction with 100 – 300 keV photons produced in hot accretion disc coronae, likely to exist in active galactic nuclei in general. If the coronal radiation is powered by magnetic flares, the pair loading is expected to be non-uniform and non-axisymmetric. Together with radiation drag, this leads to velocity and density perturbations in a jet and formation of shocks, where the pairs are accelerated. Such a scenario can explain rapid (time scale of ∼ a day) variability observed in OVV quasars. Subject headings: galaxies: jets — plasmas — radiation mechanisms: non-thermal – 2 – 1.