Modeling Gamma-Ray Burst Prompt Emission and X-Ray Flares within the Internal Shock Model

Abstract

We have developed a shell model code to address the question of how gamma-ray prompt emission and x-ray flares are produced within the framework of the internal shock model. The shell model creates randomized GRB explosions from the central engine with multiple shells and follows those shells as they collide, producing gamma-ray emission and x-ray flares. Our goal is to explore what types of models produce the observed light curve patterns, so one can diagnose the Lorentz factor distribution of the shells as well as the time history of the central engine. © 2008 American Institute of Physics.