X-ray evidence for the accretion disc-outflow connection in 3C 111

Abstract

We present the spectral analysis of three Suzaku X-ray Imaging Spectrometer observations of 3C 111 requested to monitor the predicted variability of its ultrafast outflow on ~7d time-scales. We detect an ionized iron emission line in the first observation and a blueshifted absorption line in the second, when the flux is ~30per cent higher. The location of the material is constrained at <0.006pc from the variability. Detailed modelling supports an identification with ionized reflection off the accretion disc at ~20-100rg from the black hole and a highly ionized and massive ultrafast outflow with velocity ~0.1c, respectively. The outflow is most probably accelerated by radiation pressure, but additional magnetic thrust cannot be excluded. The measured high outflow rate and mechanical energy support the claims that disc outflows may have a significant feedback role. This work provides the first direct evidence for an accretion disc-outflow connection in a radio-loud active galactic nucleus, possibly linked also to the jet activity. © 2011 The Authors Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society © 2011 RAS.