Low-mass x-ray binaries in globular clusters and hierarchical triple systems
This thesis examines the relation between low-mass x-ray binaries (LMXRBs) and other stars near them. Part I is concerned with LMXRBs in globular clusters. Chapter I.1 describes the discovery of a candidate for the optical counterpart of the x-ray source in NGC 6712, and other uses of the technique of color mapping in globular-cluster cores. Chapter I.2 discusses the formation of LMXRBs in globular clusters by tidal capture, and the subsequent evolution of these systems, and culminates with a detailed evolutionary scenario for both globular cluster LMXRBs (in M15 and NGC 6624). Chapter I.3 presents evidence that faint blue horizontal-branch stars in globular clusters are centrally concentrated, which leads to a suggested formation mechanism for these stars related to that of LXMRBs. Chapter I.4 forms a link between Parts I and II, discussing the formation of hierarchical triple systems by binary-single star encounters. Part II explores the changes in mass-transfer rate that would occur in an LMXRB in a hierarchical triple system because of the presence of the third star. Chapters II.1-3 discuss the short-term, long-term, and tidally induced changes in the mass-transfer rate, respectively. Chapter II.4 applies these considerations to four specific objects. The thesis concludes with a chapter on methods of numerical integration and stability of hierarchical triple systems.
- Research Organization:
- Harvard Univ., Boston, MA (USA)
- OSTI ID:
- 6276165
- Resource Relation:
- Other Information: Thesis (Ph. D.)
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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