Accretion torques due to three-dimensional channelled flows in magnetic cataclysmic variables

Angular momentum transfer due to three-dimensional magnetically channelled accretion flows in cataclysmic binaries is considered. The white dwarf experiences a torque due to the twist in that part of its magnetic field which interacts with the accretion stream. The channelling process can also enhance angular momentum exchange between the stream and the orbit by increasing the gravitational torques. The components of the accretion torque are calculated for an arbitrary static magnetic orientation of the white dwarf, and their variation with orientation is presented. The case is also considered in which the white dwarf rotates asynchronously with its spin axis parallel to the orbital angular momentum vector.