Abstract
We discuss constraints on black hole spin and spin-related astrophysics as derived from X-ray spectroscopy. After a brief discussion about the robustness with which X-ray spectroscopy can be used to probe strong gravity, we summarize how these techniques can constrain black hole spin. In particular, we highlight XMM-Newton studies of the Seyfert galaxy MCG-6-30-15 and the stellarmass black hole GX 339-4. The broad X-ray iron line profile, together with reasonable and general astrophysical assumptions, allow a non-rotating black hole to be rejected in both of these sources. If we make the stronger assertion of no emission from within the innermost stable circular orbit, the MCG-6-30-15 data constrain the dimensionless spin parameter to be a > 0.93. Furthermore, these XMM-Newton data are already providing evidence for exotic spin-related astrophysics in the central regions of this object.We conclude with a discussion of the impact that Constellation-X will have on the study of strong gravity and black hole spin.
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Reynolds, C.S., Brenneman, 1.W., Garofalo, D. (2005). Black hole spin in AGN and GBHCs. In: Maccarone, T.J., Fender, R.P., Ho, L.C. (eds) Astrophysics and Space Science. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/1-4020-4085-7_9
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/1-4020-4085-7_9
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