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Title: The active chromosphere binary HD 17433 (VY Arietis)

Journal Article · · Astrophys. J.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1086/167360· OSTI ID:5841996

The sixth-magnitude K star HD 17433 (VY Ari) is shown to be an active-chromosphere binary with an orbital period of 13.198 days. A photometric (rotational) period of 17.4 days is indicated by the existing photometry, implying that HD 17433 is not in synchronous rotation. In the optical, H-alpha is seen in emission, with variable profile and intensity; He I lambda-5876 is present in absorption. IUE observations show chromospheric and transition-region emission lines with surface fluxes up to 200 times greater than those observed in the quiet sun. The luminosity and radius are appropriate for a subgiant, and the kinematics suggest Pleiades group membership. The presence of a lithium absorption feature indicates it may either be a young object, possibly a pre-main sequence star or an evolved spotted RS CVn system. Interpretations from the optical measurement of the magnetic field strength of HD 17433 are given. 62 refs.

Research Organization:
Toledo Univ., OH (USA); Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, Cambridge, MA (USA); Joint Institute for Laboratory Astrophysics, Boulder, CO (USA); National Research Council of Canada, Herzberg Institute of Astrophysics, Ottawa
OSTI ID:
5841996
Journal Information:
Astrophys. J.; (United States), Vol. 339
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English