Magnetic white dwarfs in binary systems
Abstract
Some important properties of the newly discovered class of cataclysmic variables called AM Herculis type variables are reviewed, emphasizing the unique system VV Puppis, which has provided the first unequivocal evidence for high harmonic cyclotron radiation from white dwarfs. The observational properties of AM Herculis are discussed in terms of the basic model of a magnetic white dwarf locked into synchronous rotation with the orbital period. This model is combined with the properties of cyclotron radiation to discuss VV Puppis and other variables. The line spectrum and magnetic field determination of AM Herculis type objects are addressed, and theoretical considerations are treated, including the temperature and density of the shock region, the soft X-ray mystery, and the cyclotron spectrum.
- Publication:
-
Publications of the Astronomical Society of Australia
- Pub Date:
- 1982
- DOI:
- 10.1017/S1323358000021081
- Bibcode:
- 1982PASA....4..328W
- Keywords:
-
- Binary Stars;
- Magnetic Stars;
- Variable Stars;
- White Dwarf Stars;
- Cyclotron Radiation;
- Line Spectra;
- Stellar Magnetic Fields;
- Stellar Models;
- X Rays;
- Astrophysics