Numerical investigation of a one-parameter family of triple close approaches occurring in stellar systems
Abstract
This is the second part of a trilogy dealing with the effect of triple close approaches on the evolution of stellar systems. The first part appeared in the Astron. J. Vol. 79, p. 981(1974). The results of numerical integrations of stellar systems slightly perturbed from the condition of complete collapse are presented and it is shown that binary formations and escapes occur with systematic regularity and form a well-established family. The time variations of the pertinent parameters of triple close approaches are examined in minute detail. Three different numerical methods of integration are described. The thesis, that triple close approaches are of fundamental importance to the evolution of stellar systems, seems to be supported by the results. The astronomical applica- tions will be offered in the sequel.
- Publication:
-
The Astronomical Journal
- Pub Date:
- December 1974
- DOI:
- 10.1086/111699
- Bibcode:
- 1974AJ.....79.1449S