Spectral and Timing Analysis of Transient, Persistent and Variable Black Hole X-Ray Binaries: The Present Viewpoint

Abstract

We discuss the spectral and timing analysis, and the mass determination of transient sources using a few phenomenological models other than TCAF solution (like photon index and QPO frequency correlation method). Then we discuss the relative feasibility of TCAF solution in determining the same quantities, and the additional information and insight that our method can provide. Taking forward from that, we will discuss how the spectral and timing properties of persistent sources generally agree with those of the transient sources under TCAF paradigm. Thus from the perspective of the accretion flow dynamics, there is really not much difference between these two types of objects. Finally, we will discuss how the variability of the class variable sources such as GRS 1915+105 can also be explained under the purview of TCAF solution and therefore this paradigm provides a common platform for the analysis of all such objects.