QSO selection based on photometric variability

To statistically describe quasar variability, we use a damped random walk (DRW) model parametrized by a damping timescale, {tau}, and an asymptotic amplitude (structure function), SF_{infinite}_. With the aid of an SDSS spectroscopically confirmed quasar sample, we demonstrate that variability selection in typical extragalactic fields with low stellar density can deliver complete samples with reasonable purity (or efficiency, E).

Compared to a selection method based solely on the slope of the structure function, the inclusion of the {tau} information boosts E from 60% to 75% while maintaining a highly complete sample (98%) even in the absence of color information. For a completeness of C=90%, E is boosted from 80% to 85%. Conversely, C improves from 90% to 97% while maintaining E=80% when imposing a lower limit on {tau}.