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Thomson scattering in a magnetic field. II. Arbitrary field orientation

Journal Article · · Astrophysical Journal; (USA)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1086/169773· OSTI ID:5913575
 [1]
  1. Washburn Observatory, Madison, WI (USA)
This paper presents solutions to the equation of transfer for Thomson scattering in a constant magnetic field of arbitrary orientation. Results from several atmospheres are combined to give the flux from a dipole star. The results are compared to the polarization data of the magnetic white dwarf Grw + 70 deg 8247. The fit is good, though it implies a very large polarization in the ultraviolet. Thomson scattering is not thought to be an important opacity source in white dwarfs, so the good fit is either fortuitous or is perhaps explained by assuming the magnetic field affects the polarization processes in all opacities similarly. 20 refs.
OSTI ID:
5913575
Journal Information:
Astrophysical Journal; (USA), Journal Name: Astrophysical Journal; (USA) Vol. 369; ISSN ASJOA; ISSN 0004-637X
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English