Multi-epoch X-ray spectral analysis of the narrow-line Seyfert 1 galaxy Mrk 478

Abstract

ABSTRACT A multi-epoch X-ray spectral and variability analysis is conducted for the narrow-line Seyfert 1 (NLS1) active galactic nucleus (AGN) Mrk 478. All available X-ray data from XMM–Newton and Suzaku satellites, spanning from 2001 to 2017, are modelled with a variety of physical models, including partial covering, soft Comptonization, and blurred reflection, to explain the observed spectral shape and variability over the 16 yr. All models are a similar statistical fit to the data sets, though the analysis of the variability between data sets favours the blurred reflection model. In particular, the variability can be attributed to changes in flux of the primary coronal emission. Different reflection models fit the data equally well, but differ in interpretation. The use of reflionx predicts a low disc ionization and power law dominated spectrum, while relxill predicts a highly ionized and blurred reflection dominated spectrum. A power law dominated spectrum might be more consistent with the normal X-ray-to-UV spectral shape (αox). Both blurred reflection models suggest a rapidly spinning black hole seen at a low inclination angle, and both require a sub-solar (∼0.5) abundance of iron. All physical models require a narrow emission feature at $6.7{\rm \, keV}$ likely attributable to Fe xxv emission, while no evidence for a narrow $6.4{\rm \, keV}$ line from neutral iron is detected.