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Main-sequence mass loss and the lithium dip

Journal Article · · Astrophysical Journal; (USA)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1086/185794· OSTI ID:6406973
; ;  [1]
  1. Chicago Univ., IL (USA) Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, Batavia, IL (USA) Ohio State Univ., Columbus (USA) Lawrence Livermore National Lab., CA (USA)

The significant dip in observed lithium abundances for Population I stars near M about 1.3 solar mass is discussed. It is noted that this dip occurs near where the instability strip crosses the main sequence on the lower edge of the Delta Scuti stars and that stellar pulsations are expected to give rise to mass loss. A total mass loss of 0.05 solar mass over the main-sequence lifetime of these stars would be sufficient to explain the observations of lithium depletion. The absence of a dip in the Pleiades and of significant depletion of beryllium in the Hyades places tight constraints on the rate of mass loss. These constraints make unlikely the high main-sequence mass-loss rates which would significantly affect globular cluster ages. 30 refs.

OSTI ID:
6406973
Journal Information:
Astrophysical Journal; (USA), Journal Name: Astrophysical Journal; (USA) Vol. 359; ISSN ASJOA; ISSN 0004-637X
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English