Quasi-periodic oscillations in precursor flares via seismic aftershocks from resonant shattering

Abstract

Context. GRB 211211A was accompanied by a kilonova, implying a merger origin for the event. A precursor flare, modulated by quasi-periodic oscillations at ≈22 Hz, was also seen ≈1 s prior to the main emission. Aims. It is suggested here that the precursor resulted from the resonant shattering of one star’s crust prior to coalescence. Seismic aftershocks and low-frequency torsional modes may emanate from the rupture site in this case, explaining the underlying oscillations. This interpretation is directly analogous to proposals for giant flares from soft gamma repeaters, where oscillations at similar frequencies have been observed, involving starquakes followed by crustal vibrations. Methods. Torsional mode properties were computed for sequences of slowly rotating, magnetised neutron stars in general relativity. Results. The ≈22 Hz modulations in the precursor matches that of nodeless, ℓ = 2 torsional modes for a wide variety of stellar parameters. Global or discrete Alfvén modes are also viable candidates.