Linearly and Circularly Polarized Emission in Sagittarius A*

Abstract

We perform general relativistic ray-tracing calculations of the transfer of polarized synchrotron radiation through the relativistic accretion flow in Sagittarius (Sgr) A*. Based on a two-temperature magnetorotational instability (MRI) induced accretion mode, the birefringence effects are treated self-consistently. By fitting the spectrum and polarization of Sgr A* from millimeter to near-infrared bands, we are able to not only constrain the basic parameters related to the MRI and the electron heating rate, but also limit the orientation of the accretion torus. These constraints lead to unique polarimetric images, which may be compared with future millimeter and submillimeter VLBI observations. In combination with general relativistic MHD simulations, the model has the potential to test the MRI with observations of Sgr A*.