On Synchronism between Axial Rotation and Orbital Motion in Close Binary Systems
Abstract
In this paper we examine the possible outcome of the tidal evolution of a close binary system using a method from which the outline has already been given by Counselman (1973). If the value of the total angular momentum of the system is sufficiently large, two equilibrium states corresponding to synchronism between stellar rotation and orbital motion are possible. In one of these states the total energy attains no extreme value. The considered evolution can be visualized geometrically by the motion of a point along a hyperbolic cylinder in three-dimensional space. A comparison with some observational data reveals that most of the synchronously rotating detached systems have attained a stable equilibrium state of minimum total energy for the given value of total angular momentum.
- Publication:
-
Astrophysics and Space Science
- Pub Date:
- August 1979
- DOI:
- 10.1007/BF00640044
- Bibcode:
- 1979Ap&SS..64..239V
- Keywords:
-
- Binary Stars;
- Orbital Mechanics;
- Stellar Evolution;
- Stellar Rotation;
- Systems Stability;
- Angular Momentum;
- Angular Velocity;
- Dynamic Response;
- Equilibrium;
- Roche Limit;
- Synchronism;
- Astronomy