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The optical and near-infrared continuum polarization of five magnetic white dwarf stars - new observations and considerations regarding its origin

Journal Article · · Astrophysical Journal; (USA)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1086/167926· OSTI ID:5096355
 [1]
  1. Carnegie Institution of Washington, Observatories, Pasadena, CA (USA) Steward Observatory, Tucson, AZ (USA)
Linear and circular broadband continuum polarization measurements throughout the 0.35-1.65-micron spectral region were obtained for GrW +70 deg 8247, GD 229, G240-72, G227-35, and LP 790-29. The continuum is found to be characterized by significant Coulomb modification of the Landau-type autoionization thresholds. The spectral characteristics of continuum polarization originating from a centered dipole field distribution are predicted. The magnetobremsstrahlung model can describe several characteristics of the polarization of Grw + 70 deg 8247, suggesting that plasma eigenmodes draw the resultant continuum polarization away from a photoionization edge. 86 refs.
OSTI ID:
5096355
Journal Information:
Astrophysical Journal; (USA), Journal Name: Astrophysical Journal; (USA) Vol. 345; ISSN ASJOA; ISSN 0004-637X
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English