The radio and gamma-ray connection of EGRET blazars: Correlation, regression, and Monte Carlo analysis

A comprehensive statistical analysis of the broadband properties of Energetic Gamma-Ray Experiment Telescope blazars is presented. This analysis includes sources identified as blazars in the Sowards-Emmerd publications. Using this sample of 122 sources, we find that there is a relationship L(gamma) proportional to L(r)(0.77 +/- 0.03), as well as a correlation between alpha(og) and alpha(ro), and a correlation between radio luminosity and alpha(og). Through the use of Monte Carlo simulations, we can replicate the observed luminosity relationship if a synchrotron self-Compton model is assumed. However, this relationship cannot be replicated if an external Compton scattering model is assumed. These differences are primarily due to beaming effects. In addition, it has been determined that the intrinsic radio luminosity of the parent sample falls in the range 10(21) < L < 10(30) W Hz(-1) and that the bulk of the Lorentz factors of the source are in the range 1 < Gamma < 30, in agreement with very long baseline interferometry observations. Finally, we discuss implications for the Gamma Ray Large Area Space Telescope, successfully launched in 2008 June.