Timing Analysis of X-ray Flares in Gamma-ray Bursts
Abstract
We employ a variety of techniques to examine the timing and variability of late time x-ray flares observed in GRBs by the XRT instrument aboard the Swift spacecraft. These flares are thought to be indicative of extended activity in the central engine and produced by means similar to those which produce the prompt gamma-ray emission. We use structure function and wavelet analysis to look for an evolution of the fundamental variability time-scale between the prompt and late time emission as evidence of an expanding and cooling emitting region. We also examine the late time XRT data for pulse width evolution as evidence for internal shocks. We find tentative correlations between the flare's duration and fluence vs. the time of peak flux and examine the implications of these correlations.
- Publication:
-
AAS/High Energy Astrophysics Division #9
- Pub Date:
- September 2006
- Bibcode:
- 2006HEAD....9.1353K