Using novel spectral-timing techniques to probe the rapid variability of X-Ray Binaries

X-ray spectral variability is a powerful probe of the relationship between the accretion disc and corona in accreting compact objects. In this thesis, I present the use of variability techniques to disentangle the different variable components of X-ray spectra. By examining correlated variability over a range of timescales, I identify for the first time evidence of intrinsic disc variability on timescales of seconds. I go on to examine, utilising a range of spectral-timing techniques, the role this intrinsic variability might play in driving much of the observed spectral variability in these sources

Name dc:type.qualificationname

Ph.D.

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

doctoral

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of Southampton

Year dc:date.issued

2011

Author dc:creator

• Wilkinson, Tony

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Uttley, Phil