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Dynamical mass transfer in cataclysmic binariesWhen a binary comes into contact and mass transfer begins, orbital angular momentum is stored in the accretion disk until the disk couples tidally to the binary system. Taam and McDermott (1987) have suggested that this leads to unstable dynamical mass transfer in many cataclysmic variables in which mass transfer would otherwise be stable, and that it explains the gap between 2 and 3 h in the orbital period distribution of these systems. Here the consequences of this hypothesis for the evolution of cataclysmic binaries are explored. It is found that systems coming into contact longward of the period gap undergo one or more episodes of dynamical mass transfer.
Document ID
19880026642
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
External Source(s)
Authors
Melia, Fulvio
(Chicago Univ. Chicago, IL, United States)
Lamb, D. Q.
(Chicago, University IL, United States)
Date Acquired
August 13, 2013
Publication Date
October 15, 1987
Publication Information
Publication: Astrophysical Journal, Part 2 - Letters to the Editor
Volume: 321
ISSN: 0004-637X
Subject Category
Astrophysics
Accession Number
88A13869
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAG8-563
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAGW-830
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAG8-520
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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