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| Paper: |
Structure and Kinematics of the BLR: What We have Learned and Where We Are |
| Volume: |
69, Reverberation Mapping of the Broad-Line Region in Active Galactic Nuclei |
| Page: |
111 |
| Authors: |
Gaskell, C. Martin |
| Abstract: |
What has been learned from variability studies of the BLR is reviewded. The majority of our knowledge has ceom from determining only the first moment of the transfer function (the "lag"). Details of the method most widely used for determining the first moment, i.e., the partial interpolation cross correlation function (PICCF) method, are discussed. The much higher efficiency of the PICCF method compared to the discrete correlation function (DCF) method is emphasized. Recovering much beyond the first moment of the transfer function is difficult, and a plateau seems to ahve been reached in what we can learn from our present style of monitoring campaign. Directions are suggested for future observing campaigns. Obtaining simultaneous X-ray light curves is very important. Quasars with unusual double-peaked emission lines vlearly need ot be understoo as do ones with strong optical Fe II emission. Theoretical problems mentioned include (1) the reconciliation of the apparent lack of radial outflow with the blueshifting of high-ionization lines, (2) the role of electron scattering, and (3) the small apparent sizes seen in 3C 273 and some high-luminosity quasars. Continuum anisotropy offers a natural solution to the last problem. |
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