A model of the light curves of gamma-ray bursts

Abstract

Aims. An extreme Kerr black hole (BH) surrounded by a precessing disk is invoked to explain the light curves of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) based on the coexistence of the Blandford-Znajek (BZ) and the magnetic coupling (MC) processes. Methods. The overall shape of the light curves and the duration of GRBs are interpreted by the evolution of the half-opening angle of the magnetic flux on the BH horizon, and the complex temporal structures are modulated by the precession and nutation of the jet powered by the BZ process. Results. The time profile of the emission exhibits a fast rise and a slow decay due to the effect of the evolution of the half-opening angle. The light curves of several GRBs are well fitted by this model with only six free parameters. © ESO 2007.