Particle acceleration in Blazars

Understanding the variable emission of blazars observed with gamma-ray telescopes and Fermi has become a major challenge for theoretical models of particle acceleration. Here, we introduce a novel time-dependent emission model in which the maximum energy of particles is determined from a balance between Fermi type I and II acceleration energy gains and radiative energy losses, allowing for an explanation of both the characteristic spectral energy distribution of blazars and their intrinsic sub-hour variability. Additionally, we can determine the physical condition of the emitting plasma concerning its turbulence and typical shock speeds.