Physics Fundamentals of Luminous Accretion Disks Around Black Holes


Abstract in English

These lectures provide an overview of the theory of accretion disks with application to bright sources containing black holes. I focus on the fundamental physics of these flows, stressing modern developments and outstanding questions wherever possible. After a review of standard Shakura-Sunyaev based models and their problems and uncertainties, I describe the basic principles that determine the overall spectral energy distribution produced by the flow. I then describe the physics of angular momentum transport in black hole accretion disks, stressing the important role of magnetic fields. Finally, I discuss the physics of radiation magnetohydrodynamics and how it might affect the overall flow structure in the innermost regions near the black hole.

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