Recent advances on the formation and evolution of white dwarfs.
Abstract
The author first summarizes the several spectroscopic types of degenerate stars. Then an introductory overview of important processes during the evolution of white dwarfs is presented together with some pertinent recent observations. A schematic diagram outlining these physical processes and evolution is included for reference in the subsequent full discussions of white-dwarf formation and progenitor links and evolution along the DA and non-DA cooling sequences. Finally, a brief exploration of recent work on the properties of white dwarfs in cataclysmic variables is presented as well as some brief comments on future directions.
- Publication:
-
Publications of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific
- Pub Date:
- September 1986
- DOI:
- 10.1086/131831
- Bibcode:
- 1986PASP...98..821S
- Keywords:
-
- Star Formation;
- Stellar Evolution;
- Stellar Spectra;
- White Dwarf Stars;
- Cataclysmic Variables;
- Stellar Composition;
- Stellar Envelopes;
- Stellar Mass Accretion;
- X Ray Stars;
- Astrophysics