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The Unusual Ultraviolet Variability Of The Qso 3c 232, C. Bruhweilier, Menas Kafatos, U. J. Sofia

Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science Faculty Articles and Research

After examining ultraviolet IUE spectra of 18 QSOs with z > 0.35, we find that one object, 3C 232 (z = 0.533), stands out as exhibiting highly unusual spectral and continuum variability. The H 1-Lya shows at least 50% variability on a time scale of roughly a month, while the ultraviolet continuum exhibited approximately a factor of 2 decrease in a day. The magnitude of the UV continuum variability is reminiscent of that seen in the optically violent variables at visual wavelengths. Several spectral features at wavelengths shortward of H I-Lya in the rest frame are identified. A brief discussion COJ?lparing …