Microlensing of the X-ray, UV and optical emission regions of quasars: simulations of the time-scales and amplitude variations of microlensing events

We consider the influence of microlensing on different spectral bands of lensed QSOs. We assumed that the emitting X-ray, ultraviolet (UV) and optical regions are different in size, but that the continuum emission in these spectral bands is originating from an accretion disc. Estimations of the time-scales for microlensing and flux amplification in different bands are given. We found that the microlensing duration should be shorter in the X-ray (several months) than in UV/optical emitting region (several years). This result indicates that monitoring of the X-ray variations in lensed QSOs that show a 'flux anomaly' can clarify the source of this anomaly.