2005MNRAS.358..774B

In this paper we present the results of a search for short-term variability in the optical band of selected high-luminosity, high-redshift radio-quiet quasars. Each quasar has been monitored typically for 2-4 h with a time resolution of 2-5 min and a photometric accuracy of about 0.01-0.02 mag. As a result of the significant redshift (z > 2), the covered wavelength range falls into the ultraviolet region (typically 1500-2500 Å). We have found no statistical evidence for any continuum variations larger than 0.01-0.02 mag for any of the monitored objects. Our results suggest that the presence of a short-term variability in radio-quiet quasars is unlikely even in the ultraviolet region, contrary to reports by other authors. This conclusion holds true at least for high-luminosity (large black hole mass and accretion rate{quest}) objects. The results are consistent with the idea that significant short-term (less than 1 h) variations in active galactic nuclei, where observed, should be attributed primarily to processes in a relativistic jet.