An 8.4-GHz long baseline array observation of the unusual Seyfert galaxy NGC 7213

Abstract

We have observed the type 1.5 Seyfert galaxy NGC 7213 with the Australian Long Baseline Array (LBA) at 8.4 GHz to discover whether this object has the high brightness temperature compact core suggested by low-frequency variability. Confirmation would support the hypothesis that radio-intermediate Seyfert galaxies have Doppler-boosted radio jets. Our observation confirms the existence of this core but with a flux density of almost a factor of 6 less than observed 12 yr earlier. Though few studies exist on the long-term radio variability of Seyferts, a decline of this magnitude does appear to be rare.