4 research outputs found
Binary Black Hole Waveform Extraction at Null Infinity
In this work, we present a work in progress towards an efficient and
economical computational module which interfaces between Cauchy and
characteristic evolution codes. Our goal is to provide a standardized waveform
extraction tool for the numerical relativity community which will allow CCE to
be readily applied to a generic Cauchy code. The tool provides a means of
unambiguous comparison between the waveforms generated by evolution codes based
upon different formulations of the Einstein equations and different numerical
approximation.Comment: 11 pages, 7 figure
Mergers of Supermassive Black Holes in Astrophysical Environments
Modeling the late inspiral and merger of supermassive black holes is central
to understanding accretion processes and the conditions under which
electromagnetic emission accompanies gravitational waves. We use fully general
relativistic, hydrodynamics simulations to investigate how electromagnetic
signatures correlate with black hole spins, mass ratios, and the gaseous
environment in this final phase of binary evolution. In all scenarios, we find
some form of characteristic electromagnetic variability whose pattern depends
on the spins and binary mass ratios. Binaries in hot accretion flows exhibit a
flare followed by a sudden drop in luminosity associated with the plunge and
merger, as well as quasi-periodic oscillations correlated with the
gravitational waves during the inspiral. Conversely, circumbinary disk systems
are characterized by a low luminosity of variable emission, suggesting
challenging prospects for their detection.Comment: 9 pages, 5 figures, 1 table, replaced with version accepted for
publication in Ap