Radio to X-ray continua of AGN

The spectral distribution of continuum emission of strongly nonthermal AGN is adequately described by synchrotron self-Compton models. However, significant questions remain regarding the origin of relativistic particles and the possible origin of beaming. Separation of potential radiation components in AGN in which gas is present is difficult in practice. One example is the question of the origin of the blue bump. Models involving a power law plus Balmer continuum and Fe II emission, as well as those based on thermal accretion disk emission are discussed. There is no definitive resolution of this problem at present. The variable nonthermal emission, X-rays, and observable consequences of accretion disks are primary examples of ways in which the innermost core of AGN can be studied. 120 references