A linear polarization survey of bright QSOs.
Abstract
Polarization of bright QSOs is considered as an attribute separating BL Lacertae-like QSOs and BL Lacertae objects from 'normal' QSOs. Attention is given to the linear polarization of violent variables, which is taken as an indication of resonance scattering in an expanding asymmetric envelope. Polarization in BL Lacertae objects, however, has been regarded as intrinsic to the central compact region. The results of a survey undertaken to reconcile these conflicting explanations are presented in this paper. A possible explanation is the strong color dependence of polarization, which is typical of dust scattering, and which has been observed in many Seyfert 1 galaxies.
- Publication:
-
The Astrophysical Journal
- Pub Date:
- March 1978
- DOI:
- 10.1086/182638
- Bibcode:
- 1978ApJ...220L..67S
- Keywords:
-
- Frequency Distribution;
- Linear Polarization;
- Polarimetry;
- Quasars;
- Variable Stars;
- Extragalactic Radio Sources;
- Radio Astronomy;
- Resonance Scattering;
- Visual Observation;
- Astronomy;
- Polarization:Quasars;
- Quasars: Surveys