Unfolding X-Ray Spectral Data: Conditions and Applications

Abstract We present conditions for which X-ray spectra can be “unfolded” to present an accurate representation of the true source spectra. The method we use to unfold the data is implemented in the Interactive Spectral Interpretation Software and distinguishes itself as being model-independent. We find that this method of unfolding makes accurate representations of the true source spectra: (1) The detector is high-resolution, and (2) The spectrum is not steeply sloped. These criteria are not simple conditions that give concrete determinations; each detector and spectrum must be judged individually. We find that both grating and imaging detectors can be unfolded with minimal distortions as compared to both continuum and local spectral features, the latter CCD detectors being much more energy dependent. We also provide example use cases for unfolding in the context of current generation X-ray observatories and important caveats.