Abstract
We examine the properties of the gamma-ray active galactic nuclei (AGNs) detected by EGRET. We calculate the evolution and luminosity function of the gamma-ray-loud AGNs, and we estimate the contribution this source class makes to the diffuse extragalactic gamma-ray background. These calculations are based on a sample of EGRET observations complete through the Compton Gamma-Ray Observatory observing Cycle 4. We use the Ve/Va test to measure the luminosity evolution and the nonparametric c--method to estimate the de-evolved luminosity function. We also consider inclusion in the 1 Jy radio catalog of Kühr et al. (1981) as an additional criterion to help guard against selection effects resulting from incomplete redshift determinations for AGNs in our sample. Our results include evidence for a low-luminosity cutoff in the gamma-ray AGN luminosity distribution, a more precise estimate of the contribution of these objects to the diffuse extragalactic gamma-ray background, and constraints on the gamma-ray production mechanism based upon the statistics implied by relativistic beaming of the emission. We discuss the implications of these findings for models of AGN unification and the relationship of gamma-ray to radio emission.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
